Prescribing & Labs

Prescribing

Naturopathic doctors in Ontario can recommend supplements and remedies for patients and also prescribe drugs once they have met the Standard of Practice for Prescribing outlined in the General Regulation. To help NDs work towards these requirements, we launched the Ontario Prescribing and Therapeutics online course in March 2014.

Some drugs can only be acquired through a prescription. Others can be acquired without a prescription but must be dispensed by a pharmacist. Still, other drugs are available for self-selection (certain vitamins and supplements or remedies); however, the need for a prescription can depend on the dosage and route of administration.

The following resources can help you to understand which drugs NDs can access and which require a prescription and how to meet the Standard of Practice for Prescribing:

Find more information about the Prescribing & Therapeutics examination.

Find more information about what Naturopaths can prescribe.

Frequently asked questions about the Prescribing Standards.

Labs

The Naturopathy Act, 2007 authorises Registrants to draw blood to perform certain tests. All other aspects of collecting specimens, performing blood tests and ordering laboratory tests are authorised under the Laboratory Regulation made under the Laboratory and Specimen Collection Centre Licensing Act, 1990 (LSCCLA). More information on the Specimens & Lab tests page.