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Pharmacy

Advice, treatment and medicines for many common health concerns.

Pharmacies can help with more than you might think. On top of dispensing your prescriptions, they can provide advice, treatment and support for a range of common health concerns, often with no appointment.

If you need health advice, treatment for a common condition, or you are not sure what to do next, a pharmacist can help. Some pharmacies are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, you so can get care day or night.

When to go to a pharmacy

Is this right for me?

A community pharmacist can help with:

  • filling your prescriptions and help with taking and managing your medicines
  • coughs, colds, sore throats and flu symptoms
  • mild pain, headaches or fever
  • hay fever and allergies
  • minor skin conditions such as rashes, bites, stings, eczema
  • uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women aged 18-35
  • digestive issues such as heartburn, constipation or diarrhoea
  • minor wounds, cuts and burns
  • contraception advice and resupply of the oral contraceptive pill
  • vaccinations, including influenza, RSV and COVID-19
  • blood pressure and other health checks
  • referring you to a GP or other health service if you need further assessment or treatment.

What to expect

What happens when I go?

Simply walk in and ask to speak to a pharmacist – no appointment needed. They will ask about your symptoms, provide advice and recommend the right treatment or medicine. If your condition needs further attention from a doctor, they will help you work out what to do next.

Community pharmacies stock a wide range of prescription and over-the-counter medicines. Some pharmacists have additional training that allows them to prescribe medicines for certain conditions.

Why you can trust your pharmacist

Pharmacists are university-qualified health professionals and registered with the Pharmacy Board of Australia. They are trained to assess symptoms, provide advice, recommend treatments and recognise when you need further medical care.

As one of the most accessible healthcare professionals, pharmacists can often help without the need for an appointment.

Cost

What will it cost?

General advice from a pharmacist is usually free. Some government-funded services, such as vaccinations, are also free for eligible people.

Some consultations and services may have a fee. Your pharmacist will let you know about any costs before providing the service.

If you need medicine as part of your treatment, you will usually need to pay for it. Many prescription medicines are subsidised through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), which helps reduce the cost for Medicare cardholders.

Open 24 hours

Need a pharmacy after hours?

Many pharmacies in South Australia are open late, including four open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Find a pharmacy

How do I find one near me?


Not the right fit?

If a pharmacy isn’t quite right for your situation, South Australia has other options that may help:

GP / Doctor

Your first point of care for most everyday health needs.

Virtual care

Speak to a doctor, nurse or midwife without leaving home.

Emergency care

For life-threatening emergencies.

In a life-threatening emergency

If you or someone else is experiencing a life-threatening emergency, such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness, or serious injury, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

Emergency departments in South Australia are available to all South Australians, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Call Triple Zero (000)