Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1)
Alprostadil in Canada: prescription, brands, pricing
This page summarises the situation of Alprostadil in Canada under Health Canada: prescription status, available brands and generics, pharmacy dispensing, and online options in CAD. Alprostadil belongs to the Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) class.
- Regulator
- Health Canada
- Currency
- CAD
About Alprostadil
Alprostadil is approved for erectile dysfunction of vasculogenic, neurogenic, psychogenic or mixed aetiology in adult men. 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
Alprostadil binds prostaglandin E receptors on smooth muscle of the corpus cavernosum, triggering cAMP-mediated relaxation of cavernosal smooth muscle independent of the nitric oxide pathway used by PDE5 inhibitors.
Brands and generics in Canada
In Canada, Alprostadil 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 Alprostadil specifically, the legal online options in Canada depend on its Rx-or-OTC classification under Health Canada.
Frequently asked questions
Is Alprostadil available in Canada? ▾
Yes — Alprostadil 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 Alprostadil 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 Alprostadil (Rx or OTC) is determined by Health Canada; most active ingredients in the Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) class require prescription, although there are exceptions by country and formulation.
How much does Alprostadil 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 Alprostadil in Canada
Alprostadil 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.