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The different ways of getting ED drugs and treatment
Erectile dysfunction drugs have become increasingly available and more widely accessible. This allows more men to get the treatment they need when they encounter erectile dysfunction problems. However, the issue is still a sensitive one for many and so online options can provide a discreet way to seek help without having to attend a face-to-face appointment.
Nearly all ED medications are prescription-only in Canada. You can get your treatment privately, online or in person.
As far as subsidized treatments go, ED isn’t usually covered by Canadian Medicare. Prescription drugs aren’t normally included in any government insurance plans, so talk to a doctor about the best options available to you.
On this page, we’ll discuss the various ways you can get ED drugs and treatment.
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How can I get ED treatment in person?
If you want to get ED treatment in person at a local pharmacy, you’ll first need to have an appointment with a doctor. During your consultation the doctor will be able to assess your condition and decide what ED treatment will be suitable for you. Once they write a prescription for your ED treatment you’ll be able to choose a pharmacy where you can pick up your medication in person.
Do you need a prescription to get ED treatment over the counter?
In Canada, ED drugs are not available over the counter and require a prescription from a healthcare provider licensed in Canada.
According to the FDA in the US, dietary supplements that claim to enhance your sexual performance can contain undisclosed drugs that are often found in prescription-only ED drugs, sometimes in excessively high doses. For this reason, we recommend avoiding unlicensed ED alternatives and speaking to a doctor before starting any treatment.
Getting ED treatment from Shoppers Drug Mart, Guardian and Pharmasave
Main-street chemists and pharmacies, including Shoppers Drug Mart, Guardian and Pharmasave should all stock ED medication.
Many community pharmacies across Canada, including national chains such as Shoppers Drug Mart, Guardian and Pharmasave, dispense prescription medications used to treat erectile dysfunction.
These medications are not available over the counter. A prescription from a licensed healthcare provider is required before they can be dispensed by a pharmacist.
Getting ED treatment from Loblaws, Metro, Sobeys, and other supermarkets
Some large retail chains, such as Loblaws, Metro and Sobeys, operate in-store pharmacies. Where a licensed pharmacy is present, prescription medications may be dispensed in the same way as at any other pharmacy.
Retailers that are not licensed pharmacies, such as health food and supplement stores like National Nutrition, are not authorized to dispense prescription medications.
Some of these stores may sell natural health products marketed for sexual health. However, the evidence supporting the effectiveness of these products for erectile dysfunction is limited. Individuals should speak with a healthcare provider before using such products.
Getting ED drugs through Canada’s universal health care system
Canada has a publicly funded universal health care system. Rather than having one national plan, there are 13 provincial and territorial health care insurance plans. This system means all Canadian residents have reasonable access to medically necessary hospital and physician services without paying out-of-pocket.
What does the process involve?
If you qualify for a provincial drug benefit program, contact the program to obtain more information on what medications are covered.
Where can you get your ED treatment online
If you’re getting your treatment online in Canada, pharmacies should have a licence granted from their provincial college. Websites also include icons or badges to prove their legitimacy (such as being LegitScript certified) so you know you’re making secure purchases.
Some online retailers, particularly Amazon, are continually expanding their product lines and services. At the time of writing, Amazon Pharmacy is not available in Canada.
Online store Ebay is not a registered pharmacy, though it is possible to get general sales list items, like cough syrups, painkillers and supplements, just to name a few. But you can’t buy pharmacy medicines, renew prescriptions or purchase ED medication using their services.
What does the process involve?
It starts with an online questionnaire-based intake. Once the ED questionnaire is complete, it’ll be reviewed by a regulated healthcare professional.
If the prescriber thinks ED treatment is safe and suitable, they may recommend treatment and write an e-prescription. The pharmacy will then dispense your medication and it’ll be shipped directly to you.
Buying ED drugs safely online
When you ED drugs online in Canada, it’s important to ensure you’re doing it safely and within the law.
Though laws have adapted to better regulate the internet, and what you can purchase online, it’s still possible to buy potentially dangerous treatments for ED. To ensure you’re buying safely, there are some checks you can perform:
- Registered pharmacy – online pharmacies can sell pharmacy medication if they have a licence granted by their provincial college.
- Registered prescribers – you can only buy prescription ED drugs online if you have a pre-existing prescription from your healthcare provider. Or the online seller works with regulated healthcare professionals, who are permitted to prescribe medications by their regulator.
- Legitimate online pharmacies and treatment providers will want to provide you with accurate information from reputable sources.
- Be wary if you’re on a website that offers discounts, ‘buy one get one free’ offers, or otherwise illicit sales tactics to try and coax you into parting with your money could be a sign that they are not a legitimate seller.
- Lastly, if you’re ever unsure about anything online remember you can always speak to your own doctor or pharmacist.
Reference Popover #ref2
Treated trusted source
Canada, H. (2016).
Canada’s health care system - Canada.ca.
Reference Popover #ref1
Treated trusted source
Commissioner, O. of the (2021).
‘All Natural’ Alternatives for Erectile Dysfunction: A Risky Proposition. FDA.
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Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any questions or concerns about your health, please talk to a doctor.
