This guide is available in English. Translation support is coming soon for French, Mandarin, Hindi, Punjabi, Arabic, Tagalog, and Spanish.
Many Canadian pharmacies have multilingual staff. Ask if translation services are available.
Newcomer Prescription Guide
Welcome to Canada. This guide explains how the Canadian pharmacy system works, how to get prescription coverage, and how to transfer your medications from your home country.
How Canadian Pharmacies Work
Key things to know about filling prescriptions in Canada.
Pharmacies Are Everywhere
You can find pharmacies inside grocery stores (Loblaws, Sobeys), big box stores (Costco, Walmart), and standalone chains (Shoppers Drug Mart, Rexall, Jean Coutu). You do not need a membership to use pharmacy services at Costco.
Prescriptions Are Required
Most medications require a prescription from a Canadian-licensed doctor. Over-the-counter medications (pain relievers, cold medicine) can be purchased without a prescription. Some medications available OTC in your home country may require a prescription in Canada.
Pharmacists Can Prescribe
In many provinces (Alberta, Ontario, BC, and others), pharmacists can prescribe for minor ailments like UTIs, pink eye, and skin rashes. This is faster and free compared to visiting a doctor.
Dispensing Fees Vary
Each time a prescription is filled, the pharmacy charges a dispensing fee ($2-$15+ depending on pharmacy). Costco and some independent pharmacies charge the lowest fees. Always compare.
Generic Medications Are Common
Canadian pharmacies routinely offer generic versions of brand-name drugs. Generics are equally safe and effective but can cost 50-80% less. Always ask about generic options.
Refills and Transfers
You can request refills in person, by phone, or through pharmacy apps. You can transfer your prescription to a different pharmacy at any time at no cost.
Getting Prescription Coverage
Options for getting your medications covered in Canada, from provincial programs to employer benefits.
Provincial Health Card
Your first step is applying for a provincial health card (OHIP in Ontario, MSP in BC, RAMQ in Quebec, etc.). This covers doctor visits but generally does NOT cover prescription medications for working-age adults.
Timeline: Apply immediately upon arrival. Some provinces have a 3-month waiting period.
Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP)
Refugees and refugee claimants receive temporary drug coverage under IFHP. This covers most essential medications. Present your IFHP certificate at the pharmacy.
Timeline: Available immediately for eligible refugees.
Provincial Drug Programs
Each province has programs for low-income residents. Ontario has Trillium Drug Program, BC has Fair PharmaCare, Quebec requires all residents to have drug insurance. Apply as soon as you have your health card.
Timeline: Apply after receiving provincial health card.
Employer Health Benefits
Most full-time jobs offer health benefits that cover 80-100% of prescription costs. Coverage typically starts after a probation period (1-3 months). Ask your employer about drug coverage.
Timeline: Usually 1-3 months after starting full-time employment.
Private Insurance
If you do not have employer coverage, you can buy private health insurance. Plans from Blue Cross, Manulife, or Sun Life typically cost $50-$200/month and cover prescriptions.
Timeline: Can purchase anytime.
Transferring International Prescriptions
How to get your medications when moving to Canada.
See a Canadian Doctor
Foreign prescriptions are generally not accepted in Canadian pharmacies. You need a prescription from a Canadian-licensed physician. Walk-in clinics are available for urgent needs.
Bring Your Medication Info
Bring your current medications or a detailed list (medication name, dose, frequency) to your appointment. International names may differ from Canadian names.
Pharmacist Medication Review
Your pharmacist can review your international medications and help your doctor find the Canadian equivalent. This service is often free.
Emergency Supply
In some provinces, pharmacists can provide an emergency supply of essential medications (up to 30 days) while you wait for a doctor appointment. Ask your pharmacist.
Common Drug Name Differences
Some medications have different names in Canada compared to other countries.
| International Name | Canadian Name (Brand) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Paracetamol | Acetaminophen (Tylenol) | Same drug, different names. OTC in Canada. |
| Salbutamol | Salbutamol (Ventolin) | Same name in Canada. Requires prescription for inhaler. |
| Adrenaline | Epinephrine (EpiPen) | Used for severe allergies. Prescription required. |
| Metformin | Metformin (Glucophage) | Same name. Common diabetes medication. |
| Omeprazole | Omeprazole (Losec) | Same generic name. Lower doses available OTC. |
| Amoxicillin | Amoxicillin | Same name. Prescription required in Canada. |
| Diclofenac | Diclofenac (Voltaren) | Topical available OTC. Oral requires prescription. |
| Pantoprazole | Pantoprazole (Tecta) | Prescription required in Canada. |
Getting Your Provincial Health Card
Provincial health card wait times and tips for newcomers.
Ontario (OHIP)
Get private insurance for the waiting period. Apply at ServiceOntario.
British Columbia (MSP)
Apply at HealthInsuranceBC.ca upon arrival.
Alberta (AHCIP)
Apply at an Alberta Registry office.
Quebec (RAMQ)
Drug insurance is mandatory. Apply at RAMQ office.
Manitoba
Apply at any Manitoba Health office.
- Bring a 90-day supply of your current medications when you move to Canada.
- Keep medications in their original packaging with labels when crossing the border.
- Some medications legal in other countries may be controlled substances in Canada.
- If you run out of medication before seeing a doctor, a pharmacist may be able to provide an emergency supply.
- Ask about patient assistance programs from drug manufacturers if cost is a barrier.
- Walk-in clinics and telehealth services can provide prescriptions without a family doctor.