Pink eye (conjunctivitis) is one of the most common eye complaints in Edmonton, especially during allergy season and back-to-school months. In Alberta, your pharmacist can assess and prescribe treatment for bacterial conjunctivitis on the spot. No doctor visit, no appointment, no wait. Walk into Acme Drug Mart and leave with the drops you need.
What is pink eye?
Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin clear membrane covering the white of the eye and inner eyelids. It causes redness, discharge, tearing, and sometimes itching or a gritty feeling. There are three main types, and telling them apart matters because the treatment differs.
Three types of conjunctivitis
Bacterial conjunctivitis
Thick yellow or green discharge, often worse in the morning (eyelids stuck together). Usually starts in one eye, may spread to the other. Responds to antibiotic eye drops. This is the type your pharmacist can assess and prescribe for.
Viral conjunctivitis
Watery discharge, often associated with a cold or upper respiratory infection. Highly contagious. Antibiotics do not help. Resolves on its own in 1 to 3 weeks. Cold compresses and artificial tears for comfort.
Allergic conjunctivitis
Both eyes affected, intense itching, watery discharge, often with other allergy symptoms (sneezing, runny nose). Treated with antihistamine or mast cell stabilizer eye drops, available over the counter.
Can a pharmacist prescribe for pink eye in Alberta?
Yes. Under Alberta's expanded scope of practice, pharmacists can assess and prescribe antibiotic eye drops for bacterial conjunctivitis. The assessment is fully covered by Alberta Health Care. You pay only for the medication if applicable (most antibiotic drops cost $8 to $15).
The pharmacist will ask about your symptoms, onset, discharge type, and medical history. If the presentation is consistent with bacterial conjunctivitis and there are no red flags requiring physician referral, treatment begins immediately.
When should you see a doctor instead?
Your pharmacist will refer you to a physician or optometrist if:
- You have significant eye pain (not just irritation)
- Your vision is affected or blurry
- You wear contact lenses and have symptoms (higher risk of corneal infection)
- The condition has not improved after 2 to 3 days of antibiotic drops
- You have a history of eye surgery or herpes simplex eye infections
- A newborn or infant under 28 days has eye discharge
These situations require a more thorough examination with specialized equipment.
How to prevent spreading pink eye
Bacterial and viral conjunctivitis are both contagious. Practical steps:
- Wash hands frequently, especially after touching your eyes
- Do not share towels, pillowcases, or eye makeup
- Replace eye makeup (mascara, eyeliner) after an infection
- Disinfect or replace contact lens cases
- Children can return to school 24 hours after starting antibiotic drops, once discharge has improved
Over-the-counter options
For allergic conjunctivitis or mild viral cases, OTC options include:
- Artificial tears — flush irritants and soothe dryness
- Antihistamine drops (ketotifen/Zaditor) — relieve allergic itch within minutes
- Cold compresses — reduce swelling and discomfort
Your pharmacist can recommend the right product based on your symptoms without a prescription.
Walk in
(780) 443-0202. Unit 103, 15508 87 Ave NW, Meadowlark Place, Edmonton. Assessment takes about 10 minutes. If antibiotic drops are appropriate, you leave with them the same visit.