Pharmacists in Nova Scotia can assess and prescribe for the following minor ailments:

GASTROINTESTINAL

Acid Reflux
Diarrhea (non-infectious)
Heart Burn
Hemorrhoids
Nausea

HEAD/ NOSE/ THROAT

Allergies
Cough related to COVID-19
Dry eyes
Headache (mild)
Oral Thrush
Oral Ulcers
Pink Eye

INFECTIOUS DISEASE

Lyme Disease Prevention
Treatment of Shingles (click for more information)
Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)/Bladder Infections (click for more information)

REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH

Birth Control (click for more information)
Menstrual Cramps
Emergency Birth Control
Vaginal Yeast Infection

DERMATOLOGICAL

Acne (mild)
Calluses and Corns
Cold Sore
Dandruff
Eczema (mild to moderate)
Hives (mild)
Impetigo
Rash
Warts (excluding facial and genital)

OTHER

Joint Pain (minor)
Muscle Pain (minor)
Sleep Disorders (minor)
Smoking Cessation
Threadworms and Pinworms

OTHER ITEMS NOT COVERED BY NS HEALTH CARD: Vaccines that are not currently publicly funded (ex. Shingles vaccine, hepatitis A and B) | Malaria prevention medication

FAQ

WHAT IS A MINOR AILMENT?
- A condition that can be managed with minimal treatment and/or self-care strategies
- Usually a short-term condition
- Does not require any blood work or lab tests
- Can be managed by your pharmacist at the pharmacy
- Not intended to replace regular visits with your primary care provider
  - A minor ailment can be treated with self-care treatments, over-the-counter medication treatments, or prescription medications
Do all pharmacies in Nova Scotia offer minor ailment assessment and prescribing services?
- Most, but not all, pharmacies in Nova Scotia provide minor ailment assessment and prescribing services.
Will I need to pay to have a minor ailment assessed?
- Fees vary by pharmacy. Minor Ailment Assessment/Prescribing is provided at CPPCC locations at no charge to the patient with a valid Nova Scotia Health Card.