Fast, Accessible Head Lice Treatment — No Appointment Needed
Ottawa and Orleans Pharmacist Minor Ailments Service
Coming Soon
This service is coming to Centrum Pharmacy in July 2026, as part of Ontario’s expanded pharmacist scope of practice. Check back soon, or visit centrumpharmacy.com to learn about the services we offer today.
Head Lice: What You Need to Know
Head lice are tiny parasitic insects that live on the scalp and feed on small amounts of blood. They are most common in school-aged children and spread through direct head-to-head contact. Finding lice or their eggs (nits) in your child’s hair can be alarming, but head lice are not a sign of poor hygiene and are very treatable. Acting quickly helps prevent spread to other family members.
If you’re in the Ottawa or Orleans area and dealing with head lice, Centrum Pharmacy can help — no doctor’s appointment required.
How a Centrum Pharmacist Can Help
As of July 2026, under Ontario’s expanded Minor Ailments Prescribing Program, pharmacists are authorized to assess and treat head lice in eligible patients.
At Centrum Pharmacy, our pharmacists can:
- Confirm the diagnosis by reviewing symptoms and examination findings.
- Recommend or prescribe appropriate lice treatments, including topical insecticides or non-insecticide options.
- Advise on proper application technique and how to remove nits effectively.
- Provide guidance on treating bedding, clothing, and the home environment.
- Advise when retreatment is necessary and when to seek further care.
When Should You See a Pharmacist?
Come see us if you’re experiencing:
- Intense scalp itching, especially behind the ears and at the nape of the neck
- Visible small white or yellowish eggs (nits) attached to hair shafts close to the scalp
- Visible moving lice in the hair
- A crawling sensation on the scalp
- Sores from scratching on the scalp or neck
We may refer you to a doctor if:
- There is a skin infection or open sores on the scalp from scratching
- Treatment has been applied twice with no improvement
- There is concern about treatment resistance
- The patient is very young (under 2 years) or pregnant
What to Bring
- Your Ontario health card (OHIP)
- Information about any lice treatments already attempted
- A list of any medications the patient is currently taking
Cost of Service
- Pharmacist assessment is fully covered by OHIP for eligible Ontario residents.
- You may be responsible for the cost of any prescribed or recommended treatments if not covered by your drug plan.
The sooner you’re assessed, the sooner we can help.
Fast Head Lice Treatment at Centrum Pharmacy in Orleans
Book Now for a fast Head Lice Assessment.
Tips to Help Prevent and Manage Head Lice
- Avoid head-to-head contact during play or group activities.
- Do not share hats, helmets, hair accessories, or pillows.
- Check all household members when one person is diagnosed.
- Wash recently used bedding and clothing in hot water and dry on high heat.
- Notify your child’s school so other families can be alerted.
Why Choose Centrum Pharmacy?
Centrum Pharmacy is a Canadian Owned and Pharmacist Owned business operating in the Ottawa and Orleans area. We’re committed to providing fast, convenient, and expert care for minor ailments like head lice. Our experienced pharmacists are available to assess your condition, initiate treatment, and offer ongoing support — often on the same day, without the need for a doctor’s appointment.
Come for the Convenience, Stay for the Service.
Caring for Your Family Since 1999
Disclaimer: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please do not initiate, modify, or discontinue any treatment, medication, or supplement solely based on this information. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider first. Full Disclaimer.
