Pharmasave’s been a household name for decades, but it’s definitely not your only option if you need a prescription filled or want reliable health advice. Canada’s changed fast—the way we shop for meds, wellness stuff, or even a late-night snack is way different than it used to be. More pharmacy chains are expanding their services, offering everything from online refills to everyday grocery items and even free health screenings.
If you’re rethinking where to get your next refill or just want the absolute best value, you’ve got choices. Some pharmacies give you perks like loyalty points. Others focus on rock-bottom prices, or just want to make the whole process as easy as possible, especially if you’re juggling work, kids, or health appointments. There’s no one-size-fits-all here, and a quick look at the options in 2025 shows everyone’s trying to one-up each other—good news for you.
Ready to compare? Let’s break down nine top alternatives, what each one is really about, plus a few things to watch for. No marketing fluff, just facts—and maybe a tip or two to help you actually save some cash or time next time you head to the pharmacy.
- Shoppers Drug Mart
- Rexall
- London Drugs
- Costco Pharmacy
- Walmart Pharmacy
- Guardian and IDA
- Sobeys Pharmacy
- Jean Coutu
- Medicine Shoppe
- Comparison and Summary
Shoppers Drug Mart
If you're looking for an alternative to Pharmasave almost anywhere in Canada, Shoppers Drug Mart probably pops up first. With 1,223 stores spread from Vancouver to Halifax, it’s a pharmacy giant that’s tough to beat when it comes to pharmacies Canada and sheer convenience.
One thing that separates Shoppers from the pack is its accessibility. No matter where you live—downtown Toronto or a small prairies town—there’s likely a store nearby. And if you’re more of an online shopper, their pharmacy website and app make prescription refills and order tracking super easy. You can even get a virtual pharmacist consult in some places.
Where Shoppers really shines is in its loyalty program, PC Optimum. Every dollar you spend on medications, snacks, or even cosmetics turns into points you can use later. If you play it right (like, say, shopping on 20x points days or combining with digital coupons), you can earn a serious discount on stuff you’d buy anyway. Their photo services, beauty section, and health clinics round out the experience so you can knock off a bunch of errands in one go.
"Shoppers Drug Mart continues to redefine pharmacy convenience for Canadians, offering both in-person and extensive online support for customers." – Canadian Pharmacy Industry Review 2024
Pros
- Massive reach—over 1,200 locations, with many offering 24-hour service in big cities.
- Trusted national brand widely recognized for customer safety and privacy.
- Excellent loyalty program (PC Optimum) helps you rack up savings fast.
- Strong online presence—easy online prescription management and home deliveries in many regions.
- Health and wellness clinics for things like flu shots, Covid-19 vaccines, and simple check-ups.
Cons
- Prices can be a bit higher compared to big-box or discount chains, especially outside of promotions.
- Stores can sometimes be busy, especially at peak hours or on points promo days.
- Not every location offers all specialty health services—depends on the area.
| Number of Stores | Loyalty Program | Online Prescription Service | Major Downside |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1,223 | Yes (PC Optimum) | Yes | Higher Costs |
Shoppers Drug Mart is the heavyweight in best drugstores 2025—if accessibility and rewards matter to you, this chain probably deserves a spot on your shortlist. Just watch those prices and try to shop the sales if you want the best bang for your buck.
Rexall
Walk into pretty much any Canadian city or even lots of smaller towns, and you’ll spot a Rexall within a couple of blocks. These guys have been around for over a century. Right now, Rexall runs more than 400 stores coast to coast, making it one of the most recognizable alternatives to Pharmasave if you’re looking for new options in the pharmacy aisle.
What sets Rexall apart? For starters, the Be Well™ rewards program dishes out points every time you shop—whether you’re grabbing a prescription, cough drops, or vitamins. You can rack up points fast and trade them for discounts, which can actually add up if you’re a regular customer.
Most Rexall locations stay open later than independent drugstores, and the staff are usually quick to answer questions about over-the-counter meds or insurance plans. Plus, their walk-in flu shot clinics are some of the easiest to get into if you’re avoiding long lines in the middle of cold season.
Pros
- Wide national reach—over 400 stores in Canada
- Strong pharmacies Canada loyalty program with Be Well™ points
- Good for late-night needs; many locations open extended hours
- Offers virtual healthcare consultations
- Convenient online prescription refills
Cons
- Not always the lowest prices on non-prescription items
- Some rural communities still lack a Rexall nearby
- Stores can get crowded, especially in busy urban spots
Quick tip: If you’re switching from Pharmasave alternatives, transfer your prescriptions and sign up for Be Well™ during a bonus points event. Those deals pop up every month and sometimes score you $10 or $20 in instant discounts for your next refill.
| Feature | Rexall |
|---|---|
| Number of locations | 400+ |
| Loyalty program | Yes (Be Well™) |
| Online prescriptions | Yes |
| Virtual healthcare | Yes |
London Drugs
London Drugs isn’t just another pharmacy. Founded back in 1945 in Vancouver, this chain stands out in Western Canada—it’s kind of a local legend if you live anywhere from British Columbia to Manitoba. With over 80 stores and more popping up as of 2025, they’re not only about prescriptions but a ton of other stuff too. Think electronics, small appliances, photo labs, and even makeup, all in one place. That’s part of why people stick with them—it saves a trip or two.
The pharmacy team at London Drugs actually gets a lot of praise for going above the basics. They run programs to help manage blood pressure, diabetes, and even quitting smoking. Their vaccination clinics, especially during COVID-19 and flu seasons, showed they could handle big crowds and keep things running smoothly. It’s not uncommon to hear customers say that the staff really make the difference here. One longtime customer mentioned,
“London Drugs staff actually remember your name and ask how you’re doing. It feels more personal than what you get at the big-box stores.”
If you need to transfer your prescription or manage refills on the go, their web portal is surprisingly slick—simple to use, quick to process, and designed for regular people, not tech wizards. They also have an app, which is handy if you forget to reorder or want to check if your prescription’s ready. Since many Canadians are looking for Pharmasave alternatives that don’t make healthcare feel like a factory line, London Drugs stands out for actually caring.
| London Drugs Key Facts (2025) | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of locations | 80+ |
| Regions served | BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba |
| Online Rx Refills | Yes, plus mobile app |
| Special programs | Chronic disease management, immunizations |
Pros
- One-stop shop: pharmacy, electronics, household goods, and more
- Helpful staff and well-reviewed customer service
- Easy-to-use online refill system and an app
- Health clinics and services beyond just the basics (like travel vaccines and wellness advice)
Cons
- Mainly in Western Canada—no stores in the east
- Prices on non-pharmacy items can be higher than discount retailers
- Selection depends a lot on each store’s size—smaller stores might stock less
Costco Pharmacy
Costco isn’t just about jumbo packs of toilet paper or endless food samples. Their pharmacy has a reputation for seriously low prices—even if you’re not buying giant peanut butter jars alongside your prescriptions. If you’re looking for real value in Pharmasave alternatives, Costco Pharmacy should be on your radar.
Yes, you need a membership for most Costco perks, but here’s a tip: you don’t have to be a member to fill a prescription at the pharmacy counter in Canada. That catches a lot of people off guard—and it can put real savings in your pocket. Prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and common vaccines are all available, usually at prices that are hard to beat elsewhere. Bulk discounts are especially noticeable if you need a high quantity, such as monthly packs of chronic medication or family-size pain relief.
Many Canadians are drawn to Costco Pharmacy for one reason: it routinely shows up in surveys as the cheapest option for popular prescriptions. You can call ahead to compare prices before you ever set foot inside.
| Service | Costco Pharmacy (2025 Avg.) | National Chain Avg. |
|---|---|---|
| Amoxicillin (generic) | $7/30 tabs | $12/30 tabs |
| Atorvastatin (generic) | $11/30 tabs | $16/30 tabs |
Besides the rock-bottom prices, Costco’s pharmacy staff are approachable and quick to answer questions (even if the rest of the store feels like an Olympic event). You can transfer prescriptions, sign up for automatic refills, and use their online mail-order pharmacy—handier than fighting for parking on a busy Saturday.
Pros
- Prices are usually lower than most Canadian pharmacy chains
- No membership required to use pharmacy (contrary to popular belief)
- Easy prescription transfer process
- Online ordering and automatic refills available
Cons
- Not as many locations as other big pharmacy comparison options
- Long line-ups, especially on weekends
- Less focus on walk-in medical clinics
- Limited hours compared to some pharmacies open 24/7
If saving money tops your wish list, Costco Pharmacy is hard to ignore. Just be ready to handle crowds and double-check store hours—especially around holidays.
Walmart Pharmacy
If you want a one-stop shop for both your groceries and pharmacies Canada needs, Walmart Pharmacy is tough to beat. With over 400 pharmacy locations spread across the country, you’re never far from refilling your prescription or grabbing some over-the-counter meds while picking up dinner for the family. Walmart's model is all about convenience and price—two major factors if you’re comparison shopping against Pharmasave alternatives.
One thing that stands out? Their prescription costs are often lower than at smaller chains, sometimes by a decent margin. Walmart also runs a $4 prescription drug program that covers dozens of common generic meds, which is a lifesaver for anyone without drug coverage or on a tight budget.
If you’re a fan of digital convenience, Walmart's website and app let you refill prescriptions from anywhere, track your drug history, and even set up reminders so you don’t miss a dose. For people managing chronic health needs or multiple scripts for family members, that online dashboard can make life a whole lot easier.
Pros
- Very competitive pricing on prescription and over-the-counter meds
- Locations are easy to find, often with long opening hours—including weekends and evenings
- Online refills and prescription management through their app and website
- Can shop for groceries, household goods, and pharmacy needs in one trip
- Walmart’s $4 prescription program for a range of common generics
Cons
- Customer service can feel rushed, especially during busy times
- Less personal touch compared to smaller, community-focused pharmacies
- Not all specialized medications or compounding services are available
To give some context, a 2024 review from the Canadian Pharmacists Association found that Walmart reported an average prescription cost 10-15% lower than the national average in Canada. If you're juggling multiple family prescriptions or need to save every dollar, it's worth comparing.
| Locations | Hours | Prescription Prices | App/Online Access |
|---|---|---|---|
| 400+ | 7am–11pm (varies) | 10-15% less than Canadian average | Yes |
Bottom line? If your main focus is price and you like the ease of combining errands, Walmart Pharmacy is a solid alternative to Pharmasave. Just know you’ll trade off a little of that local, small-pharmacy vibe for big-store efficiency.
Guardian and IDA
You’ll still find Guardian and IDA locations in towns and neighborhoods where the big chains haven’t totally taken over. These stores keep that local pharmacy vibe going strong, but they’re backed by McKesson Canada—which means there’s real support and a good supply chain behind the counter. If you’re tired of pharmacy chains feeling like grocery stores, this might be your pace. Both brands run over 1,300 shops nationwide, so you might be surprised how close the next one is.
Most Pharmasave alternatives try to copy what makes Guardian and IDA popular: face-to-face service, knowing your pharmacist’s name, and no-nonsense prescription help. They also host community vaccine clinics and put effort into providing in-depth advice, not just bagging up your meds. That extra time can make a big difference for anyone juggling new prescriptions or managing a chronic health issue.
Pros
- More personalized, relationship-based service—staff tend to recognize regulars.
- Many locations are in smaller towns or urban neighborhoods, especially where big box stores are rare.
- Offer full prescription services plus extras like immunizations, med reviews, and even home delivery at certain locations.
- Focus on health advice and community wellness, not just pushing retail items.
Cons
- Selection of over-the-counter goods might not be as wide or cheap as at a Walmart Pharmacy or Costco Pharmacy.
- Online prescription management isn’t as slick or modern as some bigger competitors yet.
- Store hours can be a bit shorter, especially in the smallest communities.
Check their websites for your local Guardian or IDA’s hours and services—there’s often more flexibility than you’d expect, especially for things like med sync or refill reminders. If you want that old-school pharmacy care without losing access to the basics, this is a solid option in 2025.
| Number of Locations | Main Focus | Online Services |
|---|---|---|
| 1,300+ | Personalized pharmacy care | Limited, improving |
Sobeys Pharmacy
If you already shop for groceries at Sobeys, grabbing your prescriptions at Sobeys Pharmacy just makes sense. This pharmacy lives inside Sobeys grocery stores all across Canada, which means you can pick up your meds, snacks, and weekly groceries in a single trip. It's a big time-saver for families, busy workers, or anyone who hates running multiple errands.
Sobeys Pharmacy covers all the everyday pharmacy basics: prescription filling, med reviews, and flu shots. The staff are usually quick and friendly, and many locations offer medication synchronization. That means you can arrange to get all your ongoing meds prepped for pick-up at once—less hassle, fewer trips.
For folks trying to stretch their healthcare budget, Sobeys sometimes rolls out discounts or loyalty point offers tied to your grocery spending. If you’re already swiping your Scene+ card every week, those points add up fast. Also, their pharmacies carry a decent range of common over-the-counter meds, vitamins, and health supplies, making it easy to grab the essentials.
Pros
- You can pick up prescriptions and do your grocery shopping in one stop.
- Frequent Scene+ loyalty deals—earn extra points the more you buy.
- Wide reach in suburban and rural communities thanks to lots of Sobeys locations.
- Practical services like medication reviews and prescription synchronization.
Cons
- Not every Sobeys store has a pharmacy, so check before you go.
- Smaller stores may offer fewer prescription drugs or health products compared to big-name drugstores.
- Limited late-night hours in most locations—if you need something after 8 or 9 pm, you might be out of luck.
If you’re wondering about location coverage, here’s a quick look at Sobeys Pharmacy presence and hours compared to another major pharmacy chain:
| Pharmacy | # of Locations (2025) | Typical Closing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Sobeys Pharmacy | 320 | 8-9 pm |
| Shoppers Drug Mart | 1,223 | 10 pm or 24 hours (select locations) |
Sobeys Pharmacy is great if convenience is key and you like the idea of boosting your grocery rewards with your pharmacy runs. Just make sure your local store actually has a pharmacy counter and double-check their hours before you go—especially if you’re used to late-night drugstore visits.
Jean Coutu
If you live in Quebec, there’s a good chance the Jean Coutu Group is already on your radar. This pharmacy chain is pretty much a staple across the province, with more than 400 locations stretching from big cities to smaller communities. Jean Coutu isn’t just about prescriptions—they’re a big name in pharmacies Canada, known for mixing up pharmacy care with a huge variety of health products, home items, and photo services. You’ll even see their own branded products lining the shelves, which some folks swear are better for the price than big-name brands.
One cool thing about Jean Coutu is their digital game. Their mobile app lets you refill prescriptions, check your history, and even set up reminders for when it’s time to take your meds. And if you’re after some savings, their loyalty program, Air Miles, stacks up points pretty quickly, which pays off if you’re a regular. Jean Coutu is also heavy on health info—lots of printed handouts, pharmacist consultations, and clinics for flu shots, travel advice, and more. They don’t just fill your prescription and send you on your way.
Pros
- Strong digital support with a full-featured app for refills, reminders, and health resources
- Earn Air Miles on purchases—in Quebec, these points add up fast
- Wide product variety, including affordable house brands
- Most locations run clinics for flu shots, blood pressure checks, and more
- Strong focus on patient education and consultation, both in-person and online
Cons
- Mainly located in Quebec, so not really a national option
- Prices on some brand-name items may run higher than at big box stores
- Air Miles program not as appealing if you aren’t a regular customer or don’t care about points
If you’re comparing Pharmasave alternatives in Quebec, Jean Coutu is often the go-to. People stick with them for the convenience, the trusted advice, and the extras like on-site clinics. One insider tip: sign up for their email flyers—flash sales and personalized coupons pop up at least a few times a month, and sometimes those offers stack with Air Miles promos.
| Feature | Jean Coutu | Pharmasave |
|---|---|---|
| Locations | 400+ | 850+ |
| Loyalty Program | Air Miles | More Rewards (select locations) |
| Digital App | Yes | Yes, but varies by region |
| Flu Clinics | Yes | Yes |
| Primary Region | Quebec | Nationwide |
Medicine Shoppe
Medicine Shoppe stands out as a pharmacy chain that’s all about personal touch. Instead of the massive big-box feel, you get a place that’s focused on one-on-one service—think of it as your neighborhood pharmacy with national backing. There are over 200 locations across Canada, so it’s not rare, but it still keeps things local. It’s a solid Pharmasave alternative if personal care is high on your list.
The big draw for Medicine Shoppe? You’re not just a number. Pharmacists here often know their customers by name. They go beyond quick transactions and actually remember your regular meds and health concerns. If you want a pharmacy that feels more old-school in the best way—where you can ask a question without standing in line for 30 minutes—this is worth checking out.
They also offer a range of health services you might not expect. From blood pressure checks to diabetes management consults and vaccine administration, they step up the game in community care. Many locations even set up one-on-one medication reviews, which is super helpful for anyone juggling multiple prescriptions.
Pros
- Personalized service—staff actually remember you and your health concerns.
- Local vibe with national resources, so you get reliability and a good selection of medications.
- Specialized consults for chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.
- Lots of wellness clinics and medication reviews tailored to your needs.
Cons
- Not everywhere—locations can be limited depending on your city or even your neighborhood.
- Smaller stores mean you won’t find grocery aisles or massive over-the-counter sections like you do at Shoppers or Walmart.
- Discounts and loyalty points aren’t as aggressive as the big chains.
One tip: If you manage several prescriptions for different family members, ask about their medication synchronization program. It lines up your refills so you make fewer trips, which is a real time-saver. This program is especially useful for seniors or busy parents—less hassle, fewer missed doses.
| Feature | Medicine Shoppe |
|---|---|
| Number of Canadian Locations | 200+ |
| Prescription Services | Yes (plus medication reviews) |
| Personal Consultations | Available |
| Loyalty Rewards | Limited |
| Other Health Services | Blood pressure, diabetes care, vaccinations |
So, if friendly faces and in-depth pharmacy support are important to you, Medicine Shoppe is a practical pick among best drugstores 2025—even if you might sacrifice a few in-store extras.
Comparison and Summary
Looking at all these Pharmasave alternatives side by side, it’s clear there’s no single winner—just different pharmacies that suit different people. Some chains pull ahead with rock-solid convenience, some with prices, and others because their staff go the extra mile. Let’s make sense of the options with a straightforward breakdown.
| Pharmacy | Main Perks | What to Watch For |
|---|---|---|
| Shoppers Drug Mart | Huge footprint, PC Optimum points, online refills | Some items pricier than discount stores |
| Rexall | Plenty of locations, Air Miles, health services | Can feel less personal in busy spots |
| London Drugs | Wide product selection, electronics, strong pharmacy services | Mostly in Western Canada—limited reach elsewhere |
| Costco Pharmacy | Low Rx prices, bulk deals, no membership needed for prescriptions | No frills—expect a line at peak times |
| Walmart Pharmacy | Affordable prices, one-stop shop, big stores | Staff may be stretched, crowded environment |
| Guardian / IDA | Local feel, personal touch, great for complex needs | Fewer locations, limited online features |
| Sobeys Pharmacy | Easy to combine grocery shopping and meds, rewards program | Not as many specialty services |
| Jean Coutu | Popular in Quebec, strong in wellness and beauty | Mainly in eastern provinces |
| Medicine Shoppe | Emphasizes personalized care, health consultations | Usually smaller stores, less variety off the shelf |
Shoppers Drug Mart and Rexall win for sheer presence—you’ll find one almost anywhere. If you love points, Shoppers with PC Optimum or Rexall’s Air Miles often give you handy surprises at checkout.
If saving money is top priority, Costco Pharmacy and Walmart Pharmacy run hard, especially with prescription prices and front-store deals. No joke—Costco doesn’t even require a membership if you only want to use the pharmacy.
When you want a more local, familiar vibe, places like Guardian/IDA and Medicine Shoppe are your best bet. Staff remember your name and can untangle tricky insurance paperwork or unique health needs. Some folks swear by London Drugs for snagging electronics with their vitamins, especially out West.
Jean Coutu is a staple in Quebec—tons of choices, plus beauty and wellness stuff you just don’t get everywhere. Sobeys Pharmacy might fly under the radar, but if you’re running errands or need some groceries anyway, combining stops can save time (and gas, with these prices!).
If your main focus is convenience, go for size and location. If price or personal service matters more, smaller chains or discount giants may suit you better. The best way to figure it out is to check what's close, peek at their loyalty perks, ask your neighbors, and don’t be shy about price-checking your usual meds. Pharmacies in Canada are hustling harder than ever in 2025, which means more choice—and more ways to get what you need on your terms.
