NSAID (phenylacetic acid)
Diclofenac in Canada: prescription, brands, pricing
This page summarises the situation of Diclofenac in Canada under Health Canada: prescription status, available brands and generics, pharmacy dispensing, and online options in CAD. Diclofenac belongs to the NSAID (phenylacetic acid) class.
- Regulator
- Health Canada
- Currency
- CAD
About Diclofenac
Diclofenac is approved in adults for the treatment of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, acute musculoskeletal pain, post-surgical pain, primary dysmenorrhoea, acute migraine and ureteric colic. 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
Diclofenac reversibly inhibits cyclooxygenase enzymes COX-1 and COX-2, with somewhat greater selectivity for COX-2 than ibuprofen and naproxen.
Brands and generics in Canada
In Canada, Diclofenac 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 Diclofenac specifically, the legal online options in Canada depend on its Rx-or-OTC classification under Health Canada.
Frequently asked questions
Is Diclofenac available in Canada? ▾
Yes — Diclofenac 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 Diclofenac 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 Diclofenac (Rx or OTC) is determined by Health Canada; most active ingredients in the NSAID (phenylacetic acid) class require prescription, although there are exceptions by country and formulation.
How much does Diclofenac 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 Diclofenac in Canada
Diclofenac 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.