Words (Core Vocabulary)
- prescription (Rx) / refill / renewal / transfer
- brand vs. generic / substitution / out of stock / backorder
- dosage / strength / frequency / directions (e.g., once daily, every 8 hours)
- with food / on an empty stomach / as needed (PRN)
- side effect / interaction / allergy
- over-the-counter (OTC) (e.g., pain relievers, cough syrup)
- medication review / blister pack (compliance pack)
- benefits plan / insurance / deductible / co-pay / prior authorization
- vaccination / injection (e.g., flu, COVID, travel)
- minor ailment assessment (pharmacist-provided in many provinces)
Phrases (Ask clearly, stay safe)
Getting medicine
- I’m here to pick up a prescription for [name, DOB].
- Could you switch to the generic if available?
- Do you offer delivery or blister packs?
Safety & instructions
- How should I take this—with food or on an empty stomach?
- What are common side effects and what should I watch for?
- Could you check for interactions with [current meds/supplements]?
Refills & transfers
- Can you transfer this prescription from [pharmacy]?
- I’m out of refills—what’s the process to request a renewal?
OTC help
- What do you recommend for [symptom] that won’t interact with my medication?
Contextual Examples (Natural, everyday)
- Pickup: Hi, prescription for Mahdie Ahmadi, 1993-05-12—any counselling needed?
- Safety: I’m starting an antibiotic—should I take probiotics and avoid alcohol?
- Access: Could you deliver and add me to a blister pack starting next month?
Collocations & Phrases (bold the key words)
Dispensing
- fill a prescription
- pick up a refill
- switch to a generic
- process insurance
Safety
- review side effects
- check for interactions
- confirm allergies
- follow the directions
Convenience
- arrange delivery
- set up a blister pack
- transfer a prescription
- request a renewal
Canadian Cultural Context (How to sound natural & polite)
- Many pharmacies administer vaccines and offer delivery.
- In several provinces, pharmacists can assess minor ailments and prescribe certain treatments—ask what’s available.
- Bring your benefits card and health card for claims.
Safety note: Always ask a pharmacist if you’re unsure about dose, side effects, or interactions.
Extra Mini-Patterns (plug-and-play)
- Generic ask: “Could you switch this to the lowest-cost generic?”
- Renewal: “I’m out of refills—can you request a renewal from my doctor?”
- Interaction check: “I take [med]—does this OTC interact with it?”