Stuffy Nose That Won't Clear? Get Assessed Online in Ontario

A blocked, stuffy nose from a cold or irritated sinuses is miserable and often lingers. In Ontario, nasal congestion (viral rhinitis and rhinosinusitis) is a minor ailment a pharmacist can assess online and help you treat - and tell you if it looks like more than a cold.

What a pharmacist can treat

A pharmacist can assess your congestion and, when appropriate, recommend or prescribe the right option - saline rinses, a short course of a decongestant, or a steroid nasal spray - matched to your symptoms and health history, so you're not guessing between shelves of products.

When you'll be referred instead

The assessment screens for signs it isn't simple congestion: trouble breathing or chest pain, a high or prolonged fever, symptoms lasting 10+ days or that got better then worse (a possible sinus infection), severe headache or swelling/vision changes around an eye, a stiff neck or confusion, an earache, or a flare of asthma or COPD. These need in-person care.

How to get assessed online in Ontario

1. Open the Nasal congestion assessment - a short, secure questionnaire (about 5 minutes).
2. A licensed Ontario pharmacist reviews your answers.
3. If treatment is appropriate, they prescribe or recommend it and can send a prescription to the pharmacy of your choice.

Cost

The assessment is free with a valid Ontario health card, or a flat $30 without one. Any prescribed medication is billed at its usual price, which your drug plan may cover.

Common questions

Can a pharmacist prescribe for nasal congestion in Ontario?

Yes - nasal congestion (including rhinosinusitis) is a minor ailment, so a licensed Ontario pharmacist can assess it and recommend or prescribe treatment when appropriate.

How do I know if it's a sinus infection?

Congestion that lasts 10+ days, or improves then worsens, can point to a sinus infection - the assessment specifically screens for this and refers you if needed.

Is it covered by OHIP?

The assessment is free with a valid Ontario health card, or a flat $30 without one.

See what we treat and start a free assessment →

Pharmly is operated by Citrus Pharmacy, accredited by the Ontario College of Pharmacists (OCP #306740). A prescription is never guaranteed - a pharmacist prescribes only when it is clinically appropriate. Not for emergencies: call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department for urgent symptoms.