What to Do If Your Child’s Prescription Runs Out
My Child's Prescription Ran Out: What Ontario Parents Should Do
Your child's prescription bottle is empty and you're wondering what to do next. The good news is you have several options to get your child back on their medication quickly and safely.
How it works
Getting a prescription refill in Ontario is usually straightforward. If your child has refills remaining on their prescription, you can simply call or visit your pharmacy. The pharmacist will check how many refills are left and can dispense the medication right away.
If there are no refills left, you'll need a new prescription from your child's doctor. This might seem stressful, especially if it's after hours or your family doctor isn't immediately available, but there are ways to handle this situation.
For ongoing medications like those for asthma, ADHD, or other chronic conditions, many doctors' offices will provide a prescription renewal over the phone if you call during business hours. They already know your child and their medication history, so this is often a quick process.
What you'll need
- Your child's health card
- The empty prescription bottle (shows medication name, dose, and prescribing doctor)
- Pharmacy phone number or address
- Your doctor's office contact information
When your doctor isn't available
If your family doctor's office is closed and your child needs their medication soon, you have options. Walk in clinics can often help with prescription renewals, especially for medications your child takes regularly. Bring the empty bottle and be ready to explain what the medication is for.
For urgent situations, Telehealth Ontario (1-866-797-0000) can provide guidance about whether your child needs their medication immediately or if it's safe to wait until morning.
Some pharmacists in Ontario can also extend prescriptions in emergency situations, giving you a small supply to bridge until you can see a doctor.
Common questions
Can I get a refill at a different pharmacy? Yes, but you'll need to transfer the prescription first. Call the new pharmacy with your information and they can contact your regular pharmacy to transfer everything over.
What if I'm traveling and run out? Most pharmacies across Canada can help, but call ahead. You might need to pay out of pocket and get reimbursed later if you're outside Ontario.
How can I avoid running out again? Set phone reminders for when you have about a week of medication left. Many pharmacies also offer automatic refill programs where they'll call you when it's time.
The takeaway
Running out of medication happens to every parent at some point. Planning ahead helps, but when it does happen, you have options to get your child back on track quickly.
You can always text Arlo and talk to a provider in 5 minutes!
References
- [Prescription Renewals in Ontario](https://www.ontario.ca/page/get-prescription-medication)
- [Pharmacy Services](https://www.ontario.ca/page/find-pharmacy)
- [Telehealth Ontario](https://www.ontario.ca/page/get-medical-advice-telehealth-ontario)