Nucleoside antiviral
Acyclovir in Canada: prescription, brands, pricing
This page summarises the situation of Acyclovir in Canada under Health Canada: prescription status, available brands and generics, pharmacy dispensing, and online options in CAD. Acyclovir belongs to the Nucleoside antiviral class.
- Regulator
- Health Canada
- Currency
- CAD
About Acyclovir
Acyclovir is approved in adults and children for the treatment of herpes simplex virus infections, including genital herpes (initial and recurrent episodes), suppressive therapy of recurrent genital herpes, herpes labialis, mucocutaneous he… Canada classifies medications as Schedule I (prescription), II (pharmacist-only OTC), III (open OTC) or unscheduled, with provincial variation. Provincial drug plans cover prescription costs at varying rates.
Mechanism and action
Acyclovir is a guanosine analogue selectively phosphorylated by viral thymidine kinase to its monophosphate form, then by cellular kinases to acyclovir triphosphate.
Brands and generics in Canada
In Canada, Acyclovir is typically dispensed as one internationally recognised brand along with their corresponding authorised generics. Canadian pharmacies (Shoppers Drug Mart, Rexall, London Drugs and many independents) are licensed provincially, and pharmacists in several provinces can prescribe for minor ailments. Brand-to-generic substitution is decided by the pharmacist under local Health Canada equivalence rules, and the price difference in CAD is usually substantial.
Online and tele-prescribing access
Online pharmacy is regulated provincially in Canada; cross-border imports are restricted. Tele-prescribing platforms have expanded prescription access since 2020. For Acyclovir specifically, the legal online options in Canada depend on its Rx-or-OTC classification under Health Canada.
Frequently asked questions
Is Acyclovir available in Canada? ▾
Yes — Acyclovir and its brands are available in Canada through pharmacies authorised by Health Canada, in various strengths depending on the commercial product. Authorised generics offer a lower-cost alternative with the same active substance.
Do I need a prescription for Acyclovir in Canada? ▾
Canada classifies medications as Schedule I (prescription), II (pharmacist-only OTC), III (open OTC) or unscheduled, with provincial variation. Provincial drug plans cover prescription costs at varying rates. The exact status of Acyclovir (Rx or OTC) is determined by Health Canada; most active ingredients in the Nucleoside antiviral class require prescription, although there are exceptions by country and formulation.
How much does Acyclovir cost in Canada? ▾
The price in CAD depends on the manufacturer (brand vs authorised generic), the strength and the pack size. Generics are typically substantially cheaper than brands and serve as the economic reference for ongoing use.
Products with Acyclovir in Canada
Acyclovir in other countries
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.