The Ontario Pharmacists Association (OPA) reassured parents that they do not need a prescription to purchase cold and flu medications for their children over the counter from the pharmacy amid supply shortages. This comes at a time when SickKids Hospital stated that they have been issuing prescriptions for some children to conserve supplies and help find solutions for children discharged from the hospital.

OPA Executive Director Justin Bates told City News that nothing has changed regarding how people can access these over-the-counter medications despite the reported supply shortages. Bates said, "It is confusing when you see levels of talk about prescription requirements, but nothing changes from a regulatory standpoint." "This is really just a way to help parents get greater access to the product."

On the other hand, a spokesperson for Toronto Hospital said that while some retailers may have these over-the-counter medications in stock, other pharmacies may only have large bottles that need to be dispensed by a pharmacist. Anyone can access this supply, with or without a prescription. She continued, "If you are in the pharmacy and an anti-product is not available, you do not need a prescription."

Bates responded when asked why some prescriptions are being issued: "Because it follows a traditional care pathway and it is easier for people to follow and understand, and they have decided to do so for their patients," adding that this is not a requirement. He added that most pharmacies will get these larger bottles of over-the-counter medications to dispense: "In preparation for shortages, many have obtained them, so I would say the vast majority of small independent operators to medium and large pharmacies should have some on hand and in their inventory."