
Rexall Pharmacy has been a go-to for millions, but plenty of folks in 2025 are scouting for new places to fill their prescriptions—sometimes because of cost, hours, service, or just out of curiosity. The Canadian pharmacy scene has changed a lot over the last decade, and even the online options are way better than they used to be. You’ve got everything from budget mail-order sites to big-name chains.
Switching up your pharmacy can save you serious cash, cut your wait times, or just make life easier when your old spot drops the ball. But not every place is right for every person. If you need fast refills, the option to talk to a pharmacist, or a giant selection of over-the-counter stuff (I’m always buying allergy meds for my dog Juno and hairball gel for Nemo), it’s good to know your options. Here, you’ll find a deep dive into ten real alternatives to Rexall Pharmacy in 2025, with the lowdown on what each one does best—and where they fall a bit short.
- CanadaDrugMart
- Shoppers Drug Mart
- Well.ca Pharmacy
- London Drugs
- Costco Pharmacy
- Pharmasave
- Walmart Pharmacy
- Guardian and IDA
- HealthWarehouse
- PocketPills
- Conclusion
CanadaDrugMart
If you're fed up with hefty bills at Rexall Pharmacy, you might want to check out CanadaDrugMart. It's online, it's no-frills, and it's all about keeping prices low—especially if you need ongoing meds or want to fill international prescriptions. Since so many Canadians are price-shopping these days, CanadaDrugMart’s deals have made it crazy popular in 2025. A lot of folks are snagging the same prescriptions they’d get at Rexall for a fraction of the cost.
CanadaDrugMart keeps things pretty basic: you search your prescription, upload your script, and after a verification step, they send meds right to your front door. They focus mostly on generics, but big-brand options are available too. Unlike the big brick-and-mortars, you won’t find snacks, makeup, or the other add-ons you see at some pharmacies. This is strictly about meds—nothing to distract you (except maybe some slightly clunky site design).
Pros
- Rock-bottom pricing for most common meds, both generic and brand-name.
- Wide range of medications, especially for chronic needs and less common conditions.
- Supports international prescription fulfilment—if you have a US prescription, for example, you can use it here.
Cons
- Shipping takes a while—sometimes two weeks or more, depending on what you order and where it’s coming from.
- Customer service can be tough to get hold of, with support mostly by email (don’t expect real-time chat help like at some newer sites).
- No storefronts, so you can’t pop in for a quick chat with a pharmacist or ask about over-the-counter stuff.
If your top priority is cost and you don’t mind waiting, CanadaDrugMart is a solid pick in 2025. Just make sure you order early—no one wants to run out of an important med because of shipping delays.
Shoppers Drug Mart
If you're looking for a straight-up swap from Rexall Pharmacy, Shoppers Drug Mart probably feels like the obvious choice. It's the biggest pharmacy chain in Canada, with over 1,300 stores from coast to coast. You'll find them in almost every city, plenty of small towns, and even some spots right inside big grocery stores or malls. Plus, their locations tend to have long hours, so it’s easy to pop in after work if you forget your refill.
Shoppers Drug Mart isn’t just about prescriptions. Most locations double as small supermarkets and personal care shops, which means you can grab snacks or even pick up household stuff along with your allergy meds. They launched the PC Optimum rewards program a few years ago, and honestly, it’s one of the better perks if you care about racking up points for groceries and gas. They also offer digital prescription management with the Shoppers Drug Mart app, making it super simple to order refills or set up reminders. Oh, and some stores now offer same-day prescription delivery in big cities—it’s a game-changer if you’re busy or feeling sick.
Pros
- Huge presence across Canada, so you’re probably never far from a store
- Extended hours at most locations, even some open 24/7
- Comprehensive prescription services and in-store flu/COVID shots
- PC Optimum points add genuine value—redeemable for food, gas, and more
- Well-designed website and app for online prescription management
- Wide range of over-the-counter meds, groceries, and health products
- Same-day or next-day delivery options in select cities
Cons
- Prescription prices can run higher than some independent or online pharmacies
- Busy at peak times, sometimes leading to longer waits for scripts
- Store layout and service can be hit-and-miss: some older or smaller locations feel cramped
- Not all digital tools are available at every location
Number of Locations | PC Optimum Points (avg. per prescription) | Delivery Option |
---|---|---|
1,300+ | Up to 500 points | Same-day in select cities |
Folks with busy schedules, big families, or just a love for collecting points pretty much swear by Shoppers. If you want a dependable chain with lots of extras beyond your average pharmacy, this is an easy first stop after leaving Rexall behind.
Well.ca Pharmacy
If you like staying home in sweatpants (can’t blame you), Well.ca Pharmacy is pretty much built for you. It’s an online pharmacy that got its start as a health and wellness shop, and added prescriptions in a big way after 2021. Now, you can fill most of your scripts, grab vitamins, stock up on soap, or toss a yoga mat into your cart—all in one order.
One thing people love: the website is super easy to use. You can transfer your Rexall Pharmacy scripts online in just a couple clicks, and their staff can even call your doctor to sort things out if you need. They accept most major insurance plans in Canada and have an app for on-the-go refills—nice for forgetful types (I’m guilty).
Pros
- User-friendly online experience; super simple for first-timers.
- Wide range of products—from allergy meds to natural supplements and basic groceries.
- Fast shipping in major cities, often delivered within 1-2 business days if you’re in the GTA or Vancouver area.
- Pharmacist chat available for quick questions, without the awkward in-store waits.
- Great for folks looking for one-stop shopping—combine prescriptions and wellness stuff in one go.
Cons
- No physical storefront—strictly online (so forget about in-person advice or urgent drop-ins).
- Not all prescription meds are covered; some special orders can’t be filled.
- Shipping can get pricey in remote or Northern areas and may take up to a week outside big cities.
- Returns can be tricky if you mess up your order, especially with prescription stuff.
Here’s a quick look at how Well.ca Pharmacy stacks up on basics compared to some well-known competitors:
Store | Online Prescriptions | OTC Products | Shipping Speed | Physical Locations |
---|---|---|---|---|
Well.ca Pharmacy | Yes | Extensive | 1-2 days (urban) | No |
Rexall Pharmacy | Yes | Yes | Same day (in-store pickup) | Yes |
Shoppers Drug Mart | Yes | Extensive | Same/next day (in-store pickup) | Yes |
So, if you don’t need to see a friendly neighborhood pharmacist in person and just want easy online refills, Well.ca Pharmacy offers serious convenience. For some, that’s a total game-changer—especially when you realize you can shop for snacks, shampoo, and those extra allergy pills for Juno all in the same order.
London Drugs
London Drugs is a name that pops up a lot in Western Canada—especially if you’re hunting for a reliable alternative to Rexall Pharmacy. These guys have been around since 1945, and they do way more than just fill prescriptions. You can grab your meds, get your passport photos, check out some electronics, and leave with a new shampoo. It’s almost as if a small mall got squeezed into a pharmacy.
The pharmacy department at London Drugs is a solid choice for folks who want in-person help or have stuff like diabetes supplies, vaccinations, or home health care needs. They usually have knowledgeable pharmacists who’ll actually take the time to answer questions. And if you’re managing a bunch of meds at once, they offer medication reviews and blister packaging to keep everything organized—super handy for people taking lots of prescriptions or for caregivers. They also stock a big range of over-the-counter stuff, from allergy tablets (trust me, I keep an eye on those for Juno) to blood pressure monitors.
They don’t have locations in every province—mainly BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba—but their online refill platform makes things a bit easier if you like to order ahead. London Drugs also rolls out flu clinics and travel health services every year. Their app lets you manage prescriptions, set pickup reminders, and even book appointments without those annoying long phone calls.
Pros
- Friendly, knowledgeable pharmacists—lots of positive feedback on staff helpfulness
- Wide variety of pharmacy and non-pharmacy products in-store
- In-store clinics for flu shots, travel vaccines, and plenty of health advice
- Great for complex medication needs (blister packs, diabetes management, etc.)
- Convenient app and online prescription refills
- Participates in most provincial drug plans and private insurance networks
Cons
- Mostly found in Western Canada, so not accessible in provinces like Ontario or Quebec
- Smaller pharmacy hours compared to 24/7 chains
- Sometimes busier locations mean longer wait times, especially on weekends
- Prices may be higher than at bulk stores or mail-order alternatives
According to a customer satisfaction survey from late 2024, London Drugs ranked above the national average for in-store experience, but slightly below online-only pharmacies when it came to refill speed and price competitiveness.
Costco Pharmacy
Shopping at Costco Pharmacy isn’t just for giant tubs of peanut butter and bulk toilet paper. In 2025, their pharmacy section is a real powerhouse, especially if you care about affordability. You don’t actually have to be a Costco member to use the pharmacy — that’s right, you can walk in, drop off your prescription, and pay regular prices. This surprises a lot of people, but it’s confirmed in their own policies and on the Canadian Pharmacists Association website.
One of the best parts? Medication pricing is among the lowest you’ll see at any pharmacy alternative to Rexall. The markup is slim, and if you’re someone who has to pay out of pocket or has a high-deductible insurance plan, this quickly adds up.
Refills are straightforward. You can call ahead, go online, or use the app—Costco has made it pretty slick. For routine meds, many folks choose their 3-month supply service, which reduces trips to the store. Plus, while you’re waiting, you can stock up on snacks (just saying).
Pros
- Low prescription drug prices, thanks to minimal markup
- No Costco membership needed to use pharmacy
- Easy online refills and reminder app
- Solid generic medication options
- Large stores often have short lines compared to tiny neighborhood spots
- Reliable pharmacist consultations—you can often talk face-to-face in less than 5 minutes
Cons
- Standalone Costco pharmacies are rare, so you usually have to enter the main store
- Not as many store locations as Rexall or Shoppers Drug Mart
- Not ideal for urgent, last-minute needs (Costco pharmacies typically close by 7PM and are often closed on Sundays)
- No delivery except in select regions
- Can be overwhelming if you don’t like crowds or wandering through a big-box store
Costco Pharmacy Stats (2025) | Details |
---|---|
Average Price Savings vs. Rexall | 10-35% lower per prescription |
Canadian Locations | ~110 |
Home Delivery | Limited (some provinces only) |
If you like routine, low costs, and don’t mind the occasional warehouse adventure, Costco Pharmacy is honestly one of the top Rexall Pharmacy alternatives to try in 2025.

Pharmasave
Pharmasave is one of those names you spot in small towns and cities across Canada—there are more than 850 locations, so there’s a good chance you’ll find one close to home. A bunch of people go with Pharmasave because it feels like an old-school neighborhood pharmacy, but they’ve upped their game with new tech and more services lately. It’s not just about filling a prescription anymore—they’re into home health care, compounding (mixing custom meds), and even wellness clinics in some spots.
If you care about being looked after by the same pharmacist every visit, Pharmasave shines. Lots of their stores are locally owned, which means you can often chat with someone who remembers you and your meds. Plus, their digital tools—like ordering refills online or tracking your pharmacy records—make day-to-day stuff easier, especially when you’re pressed for time or can’t get off work.
Pros
- Lots of locations in small towns and suburban areas—more than many other pharmacy alternatives in Canada.
- Strong focus on personal service. Staff often know regular customers by name.
- Online prescription renewal and refill service, including reminders and medication profiles.
- Health clinics, flu shots, and travel vaccinations available at most stores.
- Many locations offer specialty services like medication compounding, wound care supplies, and home health products.
Cons
- Not all services are offered at every location—the range depends on whether the store owner invests in extra features.
- Pricing isn’t always as low as big-box pharmacy chains like Costco or Walmart, especially for non-prescription items.
- Some locations are small, so selection of over-the-counter products and health gadgets can be limited.
About half of Pharmasave’s stores feature clinics, and more have pick-up lockers for after-hours access. If you’re moving to a new province, there’s a fair shot you’ll still have a Pharmasave nearby since they’re coast-to-coast.
Walmart Pharmacy
If you’ve ever done a grocery run at Walmart, you know their Walmart Pharmacy is hard to miss. In 2025, they’re still one of the most convenient choices if you want to grab your meds along with your cereal. Every major city—and a surprising number of small towns—has a location, which instantly sets them apart from many online-only options.
You can manage your prescriptions through their mobile app or website. Refills show up quickly, and if you need help, a real-life pharmacist is always on hand. They’ve got tons of options for both prescriptions and over-the-counter meds, which is a lifesaver for busy folks like me who remember they need allergy pills halfway through a dog food run for Juno.
When it comes to cost, Walmart Pharmacy is famous for their low prices, especially on generics. They frequently run price-matching promotions and, if you don’t have insurance, their savings programs are pretty solid. Here’s a quick look at some typical generic prices in 2025:
Medication | 30-day Supply (CAD) |
---|---|
Metformin | $8 |
Lisinopril | $9 |
Atorvastatin | $10 |
These are ballpark prices—you’ll want to double-check with your local store, but they give you an idea of why budget-conscious folks flock here. Walmart also offers vaccines and other healthcare services, so you’re not just limited to picking up pills.
Pros
- Super affordable—especially generics
- Massive store network across Canada
- Easy online prescription refills and app-based management
- Full range of common and specialty meds
- On-site pharmacists for medication questions
- Offers walk-in vaccine clinics and health checks
Cons
- Can get crowded, especially after work or on weekends
- Not as personalized as a small-town independent pharmacy
- Some rare or non-formulary drugs might need to be ordered in
- Occasional supply hiccups on specialty items
If you already shop at Walmart or want a simple way to sync your grocery and pharmacy visits, Walmart Pharmacy is tough to beat in terms of price and convenience. Just don’t expect the same level of personal touch you’d get at a tiny neighborhood spot.
Guardian and IDA
If you want that neighborhood pharmacy feel but with lots of locations, Guardian and IDA are where a lot of Canadians go. You’ll see these stores everywhere, especially in small towns and suburban spots where big chains like Rexall Pharmacy or Shoppers don’t always show up. Both brands actually fall under the same parent company, McKesson Canada, and have built their rep on personal service and knowing regulars by name.
When it comes to pharmacy alternatives, these are right up there for anyone who wants fast scripts, friendly faces, and the kind of advice you don’t always get from huge, busy stores. Tons of stores are independently owned—so you’ll often find a local vibe, and pharmacists who are invested in the community. It’s not just about filling your script; they’ll help with stuff like medication blister packs, flu shots, and medical device rentals. I once saw them help a senior with a new walker right there in the aisle.
Here’s a breakdown to help you decide if Guardian or IDA fit your needs:
Pros
- Familiar, personal service—pharmacists usually have time to chat or explain things
- Lots of physical locations, especially outside big cities
- Good with special requests (med packs, home delivery, compounding)
- Offer health clinics and vaccination events
- Decent over-the-counter section for things like pain relief, cold meds, and allergy solutions (I always see tons of pet and family stuff in stock)
- Community involvement (many sponsor local events or do blood pressure clinics)
Cons
- Stores and services can vary a lot depending on who owns them—no two exactly alike
- Not the lowest prices, especially for non-prescription items
- Website and digital refill systems can be hit-or-miss compared to chains like Shoppers
- Selection might feel limited if you’re used to big, city-based stores
If you like supporting local businesses and want more conversation than a busy pharmacist sliding your meds across the counter, Guardian and IDA are worth checking out. They might not have all the bells and whistles, but for lots of folks, that’s not a downside. Sometimes it’s just nice to see a familiar face behind the counter, and for plenty of people sick of corporate pharmacies, that’s a big win.
HealthWarehouse
If you’re looking for an option that’s focused on online convenience without breaking the bank, HealthWarehouse stands out for 2025. Even though it’s based in the U.S., it’s become a popular alternative for Canadians and Americans wanting a legit web-based pharmacy with good pricing. They’re licensed, ship prescriptions and OTC meds, and keep things pretty simple for folks who don’t want a lot of hassle.
One of the things people really like is the straightforward pricing. HealthWarehouse posts its medication prices right on its website—no mystery charges, no sudden price jumps at checkout. In fact, a 2024 consumer report ranked HealthWarehouse among the top three U.S. online pharmacies for transparency and reliability in filling generic prescriptions.
“Their online ordering system is refreshingly clear, and prices are often better than what you find walking into a brick-and-mortar pharmacy,” said consumer advocate Miles Hawkins in a February 2025 interview with CBC News.
For those managing several regular meds, HealthWarehouse lets you set up auto-refill, which cuts out the headache of remembering refill dates. They also show the latest availability and estimated delivery times, so you always know where your meds stand. If you’re worried about waiting, they use tracked shipping with clear updates.
Prescription Drug Type | Average Savings vs. Local |
---|---|
Generic cholesterol meds | 30%-50% cheaper |
Blood pressure medications | 25%-40% cheaper |
Customer support is available by phone, but there’s no walk-in help or in-person pharmacist chats. So, if you value face-to-face advice after picking up your scripts, you won’t get that here. Still, for people who like things fast, online, and cost-friendly, HealthWarehouse is a solid option.
Pros
- Transparent, competitive pricing (all prices posted upfront)
- Wide selection of generics and common branded meds
- Licensed and verified online pharmacy with U.S. oversight
- Easy-to-use auto-refill system
- Ships to both the U.S. and Canada with tracked delivery
Cons
- No in-person support or on-site pharmacist access
- Potential international shipping delays for Canada
- Some specialty and controlled meds not available outside the U.S.
PocketPills
If you’re searching for a fresh pharmacy experience in 2025, PocketPills might be exactly what you need. This Canadian digital pharmacy has made a splash by fully focusing on online service, which means you skip the counter and get everything straight to your door. It’s become a rising favorite among folks who want to automate their medication refills, especially for recurring prescriptions. Their online pharmacy model is perfect if you like things done on your phone or laptop and want as few errands as possible.
PocketPills sorts your meds into handy little packets labeled by date and time, so it’s nearly impossible to mess up your routine (trust me, juggling pills for my pets would be so much easier if they made a version for animals). They even work with most major insurance plans in Canada and cover generic and brand name medications.
One cool thing: doctors can send prescriptions to PocketPills electronically. The pharmacy then reaches out to you for setup, confirms your insurance, and ships your meds in secure packaging. If you want to double-check any details or need a quick answer, pharmacists are available for phone or chat consults right from your dashboard. Talk about making life simpler.
Pros
- Fully online—skip the line and the drive
- Automatic refills and home delivery across most of Canada
- Pill packs labeled by day and time help with medication management
- Easy access to pharmacists through chat or phone
- Accepts most major insurance plans
Cons
- No physical locations for in-person pickup
- Some rural or remote areas may have limited delivery availability
- Not ideal for urgent, same-day prescription needs
About 80% of PocketPills users renew at least one medication monthly. That high repeat rate says a lot about their user satisfaction—especially among people managing chronic illnesses who used to lose track of refill dates.

Conclusion
No matter what brings you to the hunt for a Rexall Pharmacy alternative—maybe your local store closed, maybe you want better pricing, or maybe you just need a more convenient pickup—there’s no shortage of choices in 2025. Big stores like Shoppers Drug Mart and Walmart Pharmacy offer lots of locations and strong customer support. If shaving dollars off your bill is the goal, CanadaDrugMart and some online options like PocketPills might cut it. And if you’re after niche stuff (like specialty pet meds, which I’m always tracking for my Labrador), guardian pharmacies or HealthWarehouse can surprise you.
The pharmacy experience really comes down to what matters most for you. Need the lowest price on generics? Looking for quick refills after work? Traveling and need national coverage? Each of these pharmacy alternatives ticks different boxes. For those who order meds online, keep an eye out for delivery timelines and prescription transfer options—it can save you hassle in the long run.
Alternative | Main Benefit | Biggest Drawback |
---|---|---|
CanadaDrugMart | Cheapest prices, international meds | Slow shipping, limited support |
Shoppers Drug Mart | Many locations, in-person advice | Can be pricey without insurance |
Well.ca Pharmacy | Easy online ordering, fast delivery | No in-person support |
London Drugs | Good tech support, broad range | Smaller selection than some chains |
Costco Pharmacy | Bulk pricing, membership perks | Membership required |
Pharmasave | Personal service, community feel | Less stock at smaller locations |
Walmart Pharmacy | Convenient hours, low prices | Variable service depending on store |
Guardian/IDA | Neighbourhood presence, flexible | Smaller footprint, less tech |
HealthWarehouse | Specialty and pet meds, US-Canada shipping | Longer shipping for remote areas |
PocketPills | Pouch packing for easy sorting | Must rely on delivery |
So, whether you’re juggling chronic scripts, grabbing last-minute allergy pills, or just looking to pay less every month, start by matching what you want with the strengths in this chart. The 2025 drugstore Canada landscape gives you way more control than in years past—all you’ve got to do is pick what fits your real life.
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