Think you need a prescription? Just ask our pharmacists.
Pharmacists can assess and prescribe medication, where appropriate, for many minor illnesses. We can provide advice, options and prevention tips so you can find relief.
Our pharmacists can treat, where appropriate, the minor illnesses below:
Pharmacists can assess and prescribe medication, where appropriate, for many minor illnesses. We can provide advice, options and prevention tips so you can find relief.
Urinary tract infection (uncomplicated UTI)
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a bacterial infection, often affecting the bladder, with symptoms like painful urination, urgency, frequent urination, and abdominal discomfort. Foul-smelling or cloudy urine may also be present. Pharmacists can assess and prescribe treatment for UTIs.
Cold sores* (Herpes Labialis)
Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus and typically appear as red, fluid-filled blisters on one side of the lip. Before they become visible, individuals may feel itching, tingling, or burning. The blisters can break, releasing clear fluid, and eventually crust over as they heal.
Nasal allergies (Allergic Rhinitis)
Allergic rhinitis occurs when the nasal passages become sensitive to allergens like pollen, mold, dust mites, and pet dander. Common symptoms include nasal itching, runny nose, sneezing, and congestion. Some may also experience post-nasal drip, coughing, fatigue, or irritability.
Skin infection* (Impetigo)
Impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial skin infection, commonly seen in children, often around the nose, mouth, or on the arms and legs. It presents as bumps that turn into blisters, releasing yellowish fluid that dries into a golden or honey-colored crust. The sores may also be itchy.
Menstrual cramps* (Dysmenorrhea)
Pain before or during menstruation often includes cramping in the lower abdomen or pelvic area, lasting 2-3 days. It may also cause lower back and thigh pain, along with nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Some individuals experience fatigue or weakness.
Hives, bug bites or stings (Urticaria)
Urticaria is skin irritation, often from insect bites or stings, causing itchy, red welts or hives. Common symptoms include pain, itching, redness, and swelling. Severe reactions, such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the lips, require immediate medical attention and an epinephrine auto-injector.
Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids occur when tissue in the anal canal becomes swollen, filled with blood clots, or bleeds. Common symptoms include itching, burning, pain, swelling, and bright red bleeding during or after bowel movements.
Skin rash (Dermatitis)
Pain before or during menstruation often includes cramping in the lower abdomen or pelvic area for 2-3 days. It may also cause lower back and thigh pain, along with nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Fatigue and weakness are common as well.
Muscle pain*
Strains occur from overuse or injury, such as pulling, twisting, or stretching a muscle or surrounding tissues like tendons or ligaments. Common symptoms include pain, swelling, and possible bruising.
Heartburn* (GERD or gastroesophageal reflux disease)
Gastroesophageal reflux occurs when stomach contents, like food or acid, flow back up into the esophagus. Common symptoms include a burning sensation in the chest and a sour taste in the mouth or regurgitation.
Oral thrush (Fungal infection in the mouth)
Oral thrush occurs when the Candida fungus overgrows in the mouth. Common symptoms include white patches on the lips, cheeks, tongue, or throat that may bleed when scraped, a fuzzy or unpleasant taste, and cracked corners of the mouth.
A pharmacist with Additional Prescribing Authorization may be able to assess and prescribe a medication for many more minor illnesses. Speak to your pharmacist to find out how they can help.
- Acne (mild)
- Diaper rash
- Eczema (mild to moderate)
- Shingles
- Minor cuts
- Fungal nail infection
- Head lice
- Psoriasis
- Dandruff
- Warts
- Diarrhea
- Indigestion
- Threadworms and pinworms
- Vomiting and nausea
- Emergency contraception
- Erectile dysfunction
- Hormonal contraception
- Yeast infection
- Asthma
- Cough
- COVID treatment
- Influenza
- Nasal congestion
- Sore throat
- Pink eye
- Dry eyes
- Headache (mild)
- Sleep disorders (minor
