Many pharmacies offer more than prescriptions and over-the-counter (OTC) medications. They also provide convenient health services to help you manage common conditions and monitor your health.
Here are eight health treatments you may find at your local pharmacy. Keep in mind that availability can vary by location and state law. So it’s best to check with your pharmacy to learn what’s offered.
Pharmacies are playing a growing role in health education and preventive care. Many now offer programs that help people understand their health conditions and make informed choices about treatments and lifestyle.
Examples include:
Chronic (long-lasting) condition support: Some pharmacies offer advice to help manage conditions such as asthma and diabetes. They may also provide blood pressure screenings and tests for cholesterol and blood sugar. In addition, pharmacists may teach you how to use devices such as inhalers, nebulizers, or blood glucose meters.
Smoking cessation: Pharmacies often combine support services with nicotine replacement therapies such as gums, lozenges, or patches. Some pharmacists may provide one-on-one coaching or connect you to local quit-smoking programs.
Weight management: Pharmacies may offer programs that combine nutritional guidance with medication counseling and ongoing support. Pharmacists can also answer questions about prescription and OTC weight loss medications, including how they work, possible side effects, and whether they may interact with your other medications.
These services can help you manage ongoing conditions and build healthy lifestyle habits.
Many pharmacies provide routine vaccines for both adults and children. These often include flu shots, shingles vaccines, pneumonia vaccines, and travel-related vaccines like hepatitis A or yellow fever. Some also carry COVID-19 vaccines and boosters.
Getting vaccinated at a pharmacy can be convenient since many locations have extended hours and accept walk-ins. Others allow you to book an appointment online.
Insurance typically covers most recommended vaccines, but coverage can vary. It may be helpful to ask your pharmacy about costs and insurance coverage ahead of time.
Pharmacies may provide in-store, rapid tests for conditions such as the flu, strep throat, and COVID-19. Results are often available within minutes. Some pharmacies also sell take-home test kits that you can purchase without a prescription.
Rapid testing at a pharmacy can help you begin treatment sooner and limit the spread of illness to others. If the test shows a positive result, the pharmacist may be able to connect you with treatment options or refer you to another healthcare professional.
Many pharmacies provide discreet access to sexual and reproductive health services. Depending on your state and the specific pharmacy, these may include:
- birth control consultations or refills
- emergency contraception
- testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- ovulation kits
- pregnancy tests
Having access to these services at your pharmacy can save you time and provide a convenient, private option for care.
Pharmacists can review your medications to make sure they’re safe to take together and answer questions about side effects. Many pharmacies also offer medication synchronization, which allows you to pick up all of your refills at the same time.
Medication management services can be especially helpful if you take several prescriptions or if you’re starting a new drug and want to understand how it fits with your current regimen.
Some pharmacy clinics can provide basic care for small injuries such as minor cuts, burns, or sprains. They may also help with skin concerns such as acne, rashes, or cold sores.
Plus, pharmacists can recommend OTC products like bandages and medicated topical treatments. They can also let you know when your condition requires more advanced medical attention.
Some pharmacies carry durable medical equipment, which refers to reusable items that help manage health conditions at home. Examples include blood glucose meters, blood pressure monitors, nebulizers, walkers, and canes.
Not every pharmacy keeps these items in stock, but many can order them for you. Some pharmacies may also help with insurance paperwork if your doctor prescribes the equipment.
Some pharmacies offer compounded drugs, which are customized medications prepared to meet a specific need. For example, a compounded drug may:
- remove an ingredient that you’re allergic to
- use a different dosage form, such as turning a tablet into a liquid
- combine multiple medications into a single formula
- provide access to a medication that’s in short supply
Compounding can be especially helpful for children, older adults, or people with unique medical needs. If you think you may benefit from a compounded medication, talk with your pharmacist about whether this service is available in your area.
Pharmacies may offer treatments that go beyond prescriptions. These include health education, vaccinations, medication management, and more. For many people, these services are quicker and more convenient than scheduling and attending a doctor’s appointment.
However, pharmacy services are not meant to replace traditional medical care. For ongoing or serious health concerns, it’s still important to see your primary healthcare professional.
Because services vary by location and state laws, check with your local pharmacy to see what’s available in your area.