Minor Ailments

Dealing with a minor ailment and you’re unsure whether or not to book a doctor’s appointment? At NutriChem, our pharmacists can meet with you and prescribe medication for 13 common ailments, saving you a visit to your doctor and helping you get better.

Connect With Us

What is Minor Ailments Prescribing?

Following recent changes in healthcare regulations, pharmacists across Ontario can now assess and prescribe medications for 13 common minor ailments, eliminating the need for a doctor’s appointment. Our pharmacists are clinically trained to assess, prescribe, and guide your care with a personalized, patient-first approach.

Please note that prescribing is based on professional judgment following clinical guidelines. If a condition falls outside the scope, we’ll guide you on the next best steps.

Conditions Pharmacists Can Prescribe For

If you’re experiencing one of these issues, or think you might be, you don’t need to wait to get help:
  • Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Painful urination, frequent urge to go, lower abdominal discomfort
  • Oral Thrush: White patches in the mouth, soreness, difficulty swallowing
  • Dermatitis (Eczema & Contact Dermatitis): Itchy, red, inflamed or dry skin
  • Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis): Redness, itching, discharge from one or both eyes
  • Severe Menstrual Cramps: Cramping in the lower abdomen, back, or thighs
  • Acid Reflux: Burning in the chest, regurgitation, discomfort after eating
  • Hemorrhoids: Swelling, itching, or bleeding around the rectal area
  • Cold Sores: Tingling or blistering around the lips or mouth
  • Impetigo: Red sores or blisters on the face, common in children
  • Insect Bites and Hives: Itchy, swollen, red areas on the skin
  • Tick Bites (Post-exposure): Small red bump on the skin or a rash resembling a bullseye. (Preventive treatment for Lyme disease)
  • Sprains and Strains: Muscle pain, swelling, difficulty moving a joint
  • Hay Fever (Allergic Rhinitis): Sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, can lead to headaches and fatigue due to seasonal or year-round allergies

Benefits of Pharmacists Prescribing for Minor Ailments

  • No wait times and no doctor needed: Avoid waiting days or weeks for an appointment. Our pharmacists can occasionally meet with you on the same day you reach out to us.
  • Accessible and convenient: Book a 15-minute appointment, available either virtually or in-person, Monday through Friday. Walk-ins are welcome too (first-come, first-served).
  • Covered by OHIP: Clinical appointments for minor ailments are fully covered with a valid OHIP card.
  • Better care, better health outcomes: Immediate assessment and faster treatment lead to swift relief and reduced pressure on family physicians and emergency clinics.

What to Expect During a Pharmacist Appointment

NutriChem pharmacist appointments are quick and easy with flexible options available for your needs.
  1. Preparing for the appointment: Bring a list of symptoms, current medications, and your OHIP card.
  2. Pharmacist’s assessment: Professional assessment and recommendations from our team. Pharmacists may also discuss supplemental or integrative approaches, where appropriate, to help you feel your best.
    • Please note: Prescribing is based on the pharmacist’s best judgement.
  3. Follow-ups: If needed, clients are welcome to come back for a follow-up if symptoms persist.

NutriChem is a NAPRA Compliant 
Compounding Pharmacy

As Canada’s leading Compounding Pharmacy, NutriChem moved into a new, state-of-the-art facility to ensure full compliance with the National Association of Pharmacy Regulatory Authorities (NAPRA) in 2019. From extremely high ceilings to highly sophisticated air filtration and ventilation to designated rooms for hazardous, sterile and non-sterile preparations, you can rest assured that our custom compounds and formulations meet the highest standards of hygiene and safety.

Book a Consultation

Why Choose NutriChem for Minor Ailments?

Your Healthcare Ally

Our pharmacists don’t just assess symptoms, but help you understand the “why” behind them, offering education alongside treatment.

Whole-Body Approach

We integrate prescription solutions with lifestyle and nutritional guidance where appropriate.

Trusted, Personalized Care

NutriChem has been part of the Ottawa community for decades. You’re not just a number here, but a part of the family.

Ready to Experience the NutriChem Difference?

With over 40 years of serving Ottawa, we’re proud to be a trusted resource for patients looking for personalized solutions.

Our team combines decades of experience with advanced training in integrative and functional medicine. We advocate for drug-free alternatives where possible and work collaboratively with healthcare providers to optimize every treatment plan.

"*" indicates required fields

Contact Preference*

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. A valid OHIP card is required at the time of appointment.

No, you don’t need an appointment; however, it’s encouraged in navigating unpredictable wait times. Please note that walk-ins will be seen on a first-come, first-served basis.

Yes, for the 13 minor ailments listed, prescriptions follow the guidelines of the Ontario College of Pharmacists.

Our pharmacists will advise you on the next steps, whether that’s returning for a follow-up or seeing a physician.

No. This service focuses on minor ailments. For medication renewals, speak with a pharmacist for options on prescription renewals and assessments.

Join our Newsletter

Sign up to receive health news from NutriChem.

Stay up to date on latest health breakthroughs, sales and more.

Join our Newsletter

Sign up to receive health news from NutriChem.

Stay up to date on latest health breakthroughs, sales and more