Prostaglandin analogue
Latanoprost in Canada: prescription, brands, pricing
This page summarises the situation of Latanoprost in Canada under Health Canada: prescription status, available brands and generics, pharmacy dispensing, and online options in CAD. Latanoprost belongs to the Prostaglandin analogue class.
- Regulator
- Health Canada
- Currency
- CAD
About Latanoprost
Latanoprost is approved in adults and children for the treatment of ocular hypertension and chronic open-angle glaucoma. 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
Latanoprost is a prodrug ester hydrolysed by corneal esterases to its active free acid, which selectively binds the prostaglandin F (FP) receptor.
Brands and generics in Canada
In Canada, Latanoprost 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 Latanoprost specifically, the legal online options in Canada depend on its Rx-or-OTC classification under Health Canada.
Frequently asked questions
Is Latanoprost available in Canada? ▾
Yes — Latanoprost 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 Latanoprost 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 Latanoprost (Rx or OTC) is determined by Health Canada; most active ingredients in the Prostaglandin analogue class require prescription, although there are exceptions by country and formulation.
How much does Latanoprost 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 Latanoprost in Canada
Latanoprost 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.