Starting in January 2023, Ontario pharmacies will be able to give out prescriptions for 13 medical ailments. Here are some of the conditions that can be treated at your local pharmacy:
- Hay fever (allergic rhinitis) – If you suffer from seasonal allergies, you can get a prescription for allergy medication from your pharmacy. This can include antihistamines to reduce sneezing, itching, and congestion, as well as nasal sprays to help with inflammation.
- Oral thrush (candidal stomatitis) – This fungal infection of the mouth can be treated with antifungal medications, which can be prescribed by your pharmacy.
- Pink eye (conjunctivitis) Whether you have bacterial, allergic, or viral pink eye, your pharmacy can provide you with the appropriate treatment. This may include eyedrops or ointments to clear up the infection or reduce inflammation.
- Dermatitis – If you have atopic, eczema, allergic, or contact dermatitis, your pharmacy can prescribe creams or ointments to help manage your symptoms.
- Menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea) – If you suffer from painful cramps during your period, your pharmacy can give you a prescription for pain medication to help alleviate your discomfort.
- Acid reflux (gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) – If you experience frequent heartburn or acid reflux, your pharmacy can provide you with medications to help reduce your symptoms.
- Hemorrhoids If you have painful or swollen veins in your rectum or anus, your pharmacy can give you a prescription for creams or suppositories to help reduce inflammation and discomfort.
- Cold sores (herpes labialis)-If you frequently get cold sores, your pharmacy can provide you with a prescription for antiviral medication to help reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks.
- Impetigo -This skin infection can be treated with antibiotics, which can be prescribed by your pharmacy.
- Insect bites and hives -If you suffer from allergies to insect bites or hives, your pharmacy can provide you with a prescription for allergy medication to help reduce your symptoms.
- Tick bites (post-exposure prophylaxis to prevent Lyme disease) – If you have been bitten by a tick and are at risk of contracting Lyme disease, your pharmacy can provide you with a prescription for antibiotics to help prevent the infection.
- Sprains and strains (musculoskeletal) – If you have suffered a sprain or strain, your pharmacy can give you a prescription for pain medication to help manage your discomfort.
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs) – If you have a UTI, your pharmacy can provide you with a prescription for antibiotics to help clear up the infection.
Overall, Ontario pharmacies are now able to provide prescriptions for a wide range of common medical ailments, making it easier for you to get the treatment you need.
