Short-acting SSRI (premature ejaculation)
Dapoxetine in Canada: prescription, brands, pricing
This page summarises the situation of Dapoxetine in Canada under Health Canada: prescription status, available brands and generics, pharmacy dispensing, and online options in CAD. Dapoxetine belongs to the Short-acting SSRI (premature ejaculation) class.
- Regulator
- Health Canada
- Currency
- CAD
About Dapoxetine
Dapoxetine is approved in many European, Asian and Latin American countries for the on-demand treatment of premature ejaculation in adult men aged 18 to 64 years with a confirmed diagnosis. 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
Dapoxetine selectively blocks the serotonin transporter on the presynaptic neuron, increasing serotonin concentration in the synaptic cleft.
Brands and generics in Canada
In Canada, Dapoxetine 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 Dapoxetine specifically, the legal online options in Canada depend on its Rx-or-OTC classification under Health Canada.
Frequently asked questions
Is Dapoxetine available in Canada? ▾
Yes — Dapoxetine 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 Dapoxetine 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 Dapoxetine (Rx or OTC) is determined by Health Canada; most active ingredients in the Short-acting SSRI (premature ejaculation) class require prescription, although there are exceptions by country and formulation.
How much does Dapoxetine 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 Dapoxetine in Canada
Dapoxetine 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.