Red, itchy, irritated, watery, or crusty eyes? Get assessed by a UPharmacy prescribing pharmacist. Same-day care may be available.
Many Albertans do not realize pharmacists can assess and treat many cases of pink eye. Instead of waiting days for a physician appointment or spending hours at a walk-in clinic, you may be able to receive assessment and treatment from UPharmacy the same day.
Many patients seek assessment when experiencing one or more of the following symptoms:
Yes. Alberta pharmacists have prescribing authority for many minor ailments, including certain eye conditions such as conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, when appropriate.
Many patients are surprised to learn they can often receive an assessment and begin treatment without needing to wait for a doctor's appointment.
The sooner pink eye is assessed, the sooner treatment can begin.
Our pharmacists can assess many common eye-related concerns and recommend treatment options based on your symptoms.
Pharmacists may prescribe treatment when appropriate.
Some eye symptoms need urgent medical attention or assessment by an eye care provider.
For many common conditions, a pharmacist may be the fastest way to receive assessment and treatment.
| Care Factor | UPharmacy Pharmacist | Walk-In Clinic |
|---|---|---|
| Access | Same-day access often available | Variable wait times |
| Minor ailment assessment | Available for many conditions | Available |
| Prescription authority | Available when appropriate | Available |
| Prescription fulfillment | Often filled immediately on site | Requires pharmacy visit after appointment |
| Follow-up care | Available | Varies |
| Delivery | Free Alberta-wide delivery available | Not typically available |
Many people confuse allergic eye symptoms with pink eye. A pharmacist assessment can help determine the likely cause.
| Symptom | Bacterial Pink Eye | Allergies |
|---|---|---|
| Thick discharge | Common | Rare |
| Crusting eyelids | Common | Rare |
| Itchy eyes | Sometimes | Common |
| Both eyes affected | Sometimes | Usually |
| One eye affected first | Common | Rare |
| Seasonal symptoms | Rare | Common |
Most pink eye assessments take approximately 15 minutes.
We ask when symptoms began, whether one or both eyes are affected, and what type of discharge is present.
Your pharmacist determines whether symptoms may be bacterial, viral, allergy-related, or require referral.
We may recommend over-the-counter care or prescribe medication when clinically appropriate.
Our pharmacists can follow up to ensure symptoms are improving and additional care is not needed.
Not always. Many cases of red or irritated eyes are not caused by bacteria. Antibiotics may be appropriate when thick discharge, crusting, and other symptoms suggest bacterial conjunctivitis. Antibiotics are usually not helpful when symptoms are caused by allergies or a viral infection.
Our goal is to help you receive the right treatment, not unnecessary medication.
Prompt access to experienced pharmacists who regularly assess and prescribe for minor ailments.
Many patients can be assessed and treated the same day.
Our pharmacists often follow up after treatment to ensure symptoms are improving.
If additional care is required, we can help direct you to the appropriate provider.
UPharmacy offers specialized compounding services and customized medication solutions.
Get your medication delivered directly to your home anywhere in Alberta.
UPharmacy provides pharmacist-led pink eye assessments and treatment recommendations in Calgary and Edmonton.
UPharmacy Calgary South
10201 Southport Road SW, Unit 230
Calgary, AB
Serving South Calgary, Southwood, Canyon Meadows, Willow Park, Acadia, Haysboro, Kingsland, Oakridge, Palliser, and surrounding areas.
UPharmacy West District
780 78 Street SW, Unit 201
Calgary, AB
Serving Aspen Woods, West Springs, Signal Hill, Springbank Hill, Discovery Ridge, Coach Hill, Cougar Ridge, Patterson, and surrounding areas.
UPharmacy Windermere
5083 Windermere Blvd SW, Unit 104
Edmonton, AB
Serving Windermere, Ambleside, Keswick, Glenridding, Chappelle, Terwillegar, Riverbend, Rutherford, Heritage Valley, Allard, and surrounding areas.
Yes. Alberta pharmacists can assess many cases of conjunctivitis and prescribe treatment when appropriate.
Not necessarily. Many patients can begin with a pharmacist assessment.
Bacterial pink eye is contagious and spreads easily through contact.
Not always. Antibiotics may help bacterial conjunctivitis but are usually not helpful for viral or allergy-related symptoms.
Yes. Pharmacists can assess many pediatric cases and determine whether treatment or referral is appropriate.
Walk-ins are welcome, although appointments may help reduce wait times.
Most assessments take approximately 15 minutes.
Red, itchy, irritated, watery, or crusty eyes can be uncomfortable and disruptive. Our pharmacists can assess your symptoms, recommend treatment, prescribe medication when appropriate, provide follow-up care, and help you get back to feeling better.
Allergy Treatment | Comprehensive Allergy Care | Calgary & Edmonton, Alberta
Experience top-quality care at UPharmacy, proudly serving Edmonton and Calgary, now including our new Calgary – West District location. Visit us for expert health solutions, fast prescriptions, and personalized service—your wellness is our priority. For Edmonton, call (780) 800-5219; for Calgary, call (587) 441-5858; for Calgary – West District, call (587) 441-5513, or fill out the form below and a team member will get back to you.