What is a UTI?
A urinary tract infection (UTI) happens when bacteria get into the bladder. Bladder infections are very common in women, and they’re uncomfortable but treatable.
Pharmacists in Ontario can treat uncomplicated UTIs: a bladder infection in an otherwise healthy woman who isn’t pregnant and has no signs that the infection has spread to the kidneys.
Listed in Ontario’s minor ailments program as: Urinary tract infection (uncomplicated).
Common symptoms
- Burning or pain when you pee
- Needing to pee often or urgently, even when little comes out
- Pressure or discomfort low in your belly
- Cloudy, strong-smelling, or slightly bloody pee
How a Kennedy pharmacist can help
Your assessment is private and happens in our counselling room. The pharmacist will ask about your symptoms, how often you get UTIs, other medications and allergies, and check for anything that means you should see a doctor instead.
If it’s an uncomplicated bladder infection, the pharmacist may prescribe a short course of antibiotics and explain how to take it. Most people start feeling better within a day or two. If you’ve had several UTIs, we’ll talk about what may help prevent them.
If we think you’d be better served by a doctor, we’ll tell you, and help you figure out where to go.
Medicines a pharmacist may consider
- Nitrofurantointhe antibiotic most often used for bladder infections
- Fosfomycin (Monurol)a single-dose antibiotic
- Sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim (co-trimoxazole), or trimethoprim aloneantibiotic options for some people
Your pharmacist chooses based on your symptoms, age, pregnancy, allergies and other medications, so not every option is right for everyone. Brand names are examples. We often use the generic version, which works the same and usually costs less.
What it costs
The assessment is free with a valid Ontario health card. It’s paid for by the province, just like a visit to your doctor.
If you’re prescribed something, the medicine is paid for like any other prescription: through your drug plan, the Ontario Drug Benefit (65+ and other eligible people), OHIP+ (under 25 without a private plan), or out of pocket.
Good to know: Antibiotics for UTIs are covered by most drug plans, and often by ODB or OHIP+ if you’re eligible. We’ll check your coverage before you pay.
No Ontario health card? Text or call us first and we’ll tell you the fee before we start.
When to see a doctor instead
See your family doctor, a walk-in clinic or a nurse practitioner if:
- You’re pregnant or might be
- You’re a man, or it’s a child under 12
- You’ve had several UTIs in the past year, or this one came back soon after treatment
- You have unusual vaginal discharge, or itching (it may be something else)
- You have diabetes that isn’t well controlled, kidney problems, or a weakened immune system
- You’re not better within 2 to 3 days of starting antibiotics
Call 911 or go to the ER if:
- Fever, chills, or pain in your back or side under the ribs (signs of a kidney infection)
- Vomiting and can’t keep fluids or pills down
- Feeling confused or very unwell
Not sure? Call Health811 (dial 811) any time to speak with a registered nurse, free.