Can a Pharmacist Prescribe Antibiotics for a UTI in Ontario?

Yes. In Ontario, a licensed pharmacist can assess an uncomplicated urinary tract infection (UTI) and, when appropriate, prescribe antibiotics for it - without a doctor or a referral. This is part of Ontario's minor ailments program, and it can usually be done the same day.

What counts as an "uncomplicated" UTI?

A pharmacist can typically treat a simple bladder infection in a non-pregnant adult with classic symptoms - burning when you pee, needing to go more often or more urgently, and lower-belly discomfort. Commonly prescribed options include antibiotics such as nitrofurantoin, chosen based on your symptoms, allergies and health history.

When a pharmacist will refer you instead

Some symptoms point to something more serious than a simple UTI, and the pharmacist will send you to a physician or urgent care. These red flags include fever, chills, nausea or vomiting, pain in your back or side (possible kidney involvement), blood in the urine, symptoms lasting more than a week, pregnancy, recurrent infections, or a catheter. Screening for these is built into the assessment.

How to get a UTI assessment online in Ontario

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

Cost

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

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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.