Selective estrogen receptor modulator (ovulation induction)
Clomiphene in Canada: prescription, brands, pricing
This page summarises the situation of Clomiphene in Canada under Health Canada: prescription status, available brands and generics, pharmacy dispensing, and online options in CAD. Clomiphene belongs to the Selective estrogen receptor modulator (ovulation induction) class.
- Regulator
- Health Canada
- Currency
- CAD
About Clomiphene
Clomiphene is approved for the treatment of anovulatory infertility in women with intact pituitary-ovarian function — particularly polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) — when other causes of infertility have been excluded or are being addressed… 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
Clomiphene acts as a competitive antagonist of estrogen receptors at the hypothalamus, blocking the negative feedback that estrogen normally exerts on hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone production.
Brands and generics in Canada
In Canada, Clomiphene 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 Clomiphene specifically, the legal online options in Canada depend on its Rx-or-OTC classification under Health Canada.
Frequently asked questions
Is Clomiphene available in Canada? ▾
Yes — Clomiphene 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 Clomiphene 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 Clomiphene (Rx or OTC) is determined by Health Canada; most active ingredients in the Selective estrogen receptor modulator (ovulation induction) class require prescription, although there are exceptions by country and formulation.
How much does Clomiphene 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 Clomiphene in Canada
Clomiphene 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.