Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)
Sertraline in Canada: prescription, brands, pricing
This page summarises the situation of Sertraline in Canada under Health Canada: prescription status, available brands and generics, pharmacy dispensing, and online options in CAD. Sertraline belongs to the Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class.
- Regulator
- Health Canada
- Currency
- CAD
About Sertraline
Sertraline is approved for several psychiatric indications in adults: major depressive disorder, panic disorder with or without agoraphobia, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), social anxiety disorder… 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
Sertraline selectively blocks the reuptake of serotonin (5-HT) by the presynaptic neuron, increasing the concentration of serotonin in the synaptic cleft.
Brands and generics in Canada
In Canada, Sertraline is typically dispensed as 2 internationally recognised brands 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 Sertraline specifically, the legal online options in Canada depend on its Rx-or-OTC classification under Health Canada.
Frequently asked questions
Is Sertraline available in Canada? ▾
Yes — Sertraline 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 Sertraline 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 Sertraline (Rx or OTC) is determined by Health Canada; most active ingredients in the Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class require prescription, although there are exceptions by country and formulation.
How much does Sertraline 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 Sertraline in Canada
Sertraline 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.