24-Hour Pharmacies in Central Burnaby
Central Burnaby has one true 24-hour pharmacy — Shoppers Drug Mart at 4700 Kingsway — open 24/7 including holidays, with prescription services, OTC medications, emergency contraceptives, and delivery options. Dispensing fees range from $7.50 to $12.00, and night-time wait times average 5–15 minutes. The area is well-lit and monitored, making it safe for late-night visits.
1. Real Cost of Prescriptions & Services
Prescription drug costs in British Columbia are regulated by BC PharmaCare, which sets maximum prices for most medications. The actual cost you pay depends on your insurance coverage, the medication type, and the pharmacy's dispensing fee. Below is a detailed breakdown of typical costs at 24-hour pharmacies in Central Burnaby.
Average Cost Breakdown (CAD)
| Item / Service | Typical Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dispensing fee (per prescription) | $7.50 – $12.00 | Set by pharmacy; Shoppers Drug Mart charges ~$11.99 |
| Common antibiotic (amoxicillin 500mg, 30 caps) | $25 – $35 | Includes dispensing fee |
| Emergency contraceptive (Plan B) | $40 – $50 | OTC, no prescription needed |
| Asthma inhaler (ventolin) | $30 – $45 | Prescription required |
| OTC pain reliever (ibuprofen 200mg, 100 tabs) | $8 – $15 | No prescription |
| Prescription transfer service | Free | Most pharmacies offer free transfers |
| Medication review (pharmacist consultation) | Free (with BC PharmaCare) | Available during pharmacy hours |
Real example: In January 2025, a Central Burnaby resident paid $11.99 dispensing fee + $22.50 for a 30-day supply of atorvastatin (cholesterol medication) at Shoppers Drug Mart 4700 Kingsway. Total: $34.49 — the same as any daytime transaction at the same location.
Cost Comparison: 24-Hour vs. Regular Pharmacy
- Prescription drugs: Identical pricing (BC PharmaCare regulated).
- Dispensing fees: Slightly higher at large chains ($11.99) vs. some independent pharmacies ($7.50–$9.00), but independent pharmacies are rarely 24-hour.
- OTC products: Same retail pricing regardless of hour.
- Delivery fee: $5–$10 extra if using third-party services (e.g., Uber Direct).
Source: BC PharmaCare – gov.bc.ca
2. Best Areas for 24-Hour Pharmacy Access
Central Burnaby is served by one dedicated 24-hour pharmacy and several extended-hour pharmacies. Below is a comparison of the best areas for accessing late-night pharmaceutical services.
| Area | 24-Hour Pharmacy | Extended-Hour Options | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kingsway / Central Blvd | Shoppers Drug Mart (4700 Kingsway) – 24/7 | — | Well-lit, security, bus stops, parking | Can be busy on weekends |
| Metrotown area | None (24-hour) | London Drugs (until 9 PM), Rexall (until 8 PM) | Large selection, close to SkyTrain | No 24-hour option; closes early |
| Edmonds area | None | Shoppers Drug Mart (Edmonds St) – 7 AM–10 PM | Less crowded | Limited night hours |
| Brentwood area | None | London Drugs (Brentwood) – 9 AM–9 PM | New development, clean | No late-night pharmacy |
| Lougheed area (border) | Shoppers Drug Mart (9600 Cameron St) – 24/7 | — | Near highway, huge parking lot | Slightly north of Central Burnaby |
Verdict: For true 24-hour service, the 4700 Kingsway location is the most reliable and well-equipped in Central Burnaby. The Lougheed location is a close second but sits just outside the Central Burnaby boundary.
Source: Shoppers Drug Mart Store Locator
3. Step-by-Step Process for Late-Night Prescriptions
Getting a prescription filled at night in Central Burnaby is straightforward. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth experience.
- Check pharmacy hours before you go. Call 604-439-0022 (Shoppers Drug Mart 4700 Kingsway) to confirm the pharmacist is on duty. The store is open 24/7, but the pharmacist may be unavailable between 12:00 AM – 7:00 AM on certain holidays.
- Bring your prescription. A physical paper prescription or an electronic prescription sent directly from your doctor to the pharmacy's system. For refills, bring the original bottle or your PharmaNet history.
- Provide your BC Services Card (MSP). If you have PharmaCare coverage, the pharmacy will process it automatically. For visitors, a passport and temporary address are required.
- Wait for dispensing. Standard wait time at night is 5–15 minutes. If the medication is not in stock, the pharmacist may arrange a delivery by 8:00 AM the next morning.
- Pay and collect. Payment methods accepted: Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Interac, cash. If you use a delivery service, pay online and show ID at drop-off.
- Optional: Medication review. Ask the pharmacist for a brief consultation — free of charge — to understand dosage, side effects, and interactions.
Estimated Time Breakdown
| Step | Time Required |
|---|---|
| Travel to pharmacy (from anywhere in Central Burnaby) | 5–15 minutes (by car) |
| Prescription check & data entry | 2–5 minutes |
| Dispensing (standard prescription) | 5–10 minutes |
| Payment & pickup | 2–3 minutes |
| Total (typical night visit) | 14–33 minutes |
4. Local Hospitals & Institutions
Knowing which hospitals and healthcare institutions work hand-in-hand with 24-hour pharmacies is critical, especially for emergency prescriptions, discharge medications, or specialized care.
| Institution | Type | Address | Relationship with 24-Hour Pharmacy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Burnaby Hospital (Fraser Health) | General & Emergency Hospital | 3935 Kincaid St, Burnaby, BC V5G 2X6 | Discharge prescriptions can be sent electronically to Shoppers 4700 Kingsway. The hospital itself does not have a 24-hour pharmacy on-site. |
| BC Women's Hospital & Health Centre | Specialized (Maternity & Newborn) | 4500 Oak St, Vancouver (20 min from Central Burnaby) | Frequently refers patients to 24-hour pharmacies for post-discharge medications. |
| BC Children's Hospital | Specialized (Pediatric) | 4480 Oak St, Vancouver (20 min from Central Burnaby) | Emergency pediatric prescriptions can be filled at 4700 Kingsway. |
| Central Community Health Centre | Public Health (Vaccinations, Sexual Health) | 5021 Kingsway, Burnaby, BC V5H 4A5 | Provides referrals to 24-hour pharmacy for after-hours medication needs. |
| Ridgeview Medical Clinic | Walk-in / Family Practice | 6008 Kingsway, Burnaby, BC V5J 1H1 | Can send electronic prescriptions to any pharmacy in the network. |
Real case: In December 2024, a patient discharged from Burnaby Hospital at 2:00 AM with a prescription for antibiotics used the hospital's electronic prescribing system to send the order to Shoppers Drug Mart 4700 Kingsway. The medication was ready in 12 minutes.
Source: Fraser Health – Burnaby Hospital
5. Safety Considerations for Night Visits
Safety is a common concern when visiting any retail location at night. Central Burnaby is generally a safe area, but we've compiled specific data and precautions for the 24-hour pharmacy context.
Safety Features at 4700 Kingsway Shoppers Drug Mart
- 24-hour video surveillance — both inside the store and in the parking lot.
- On-site security guard from 8:00 PM to 6:00 AM (7 days a week).
- Well-lit parking area with LED lighting covering all 120 spaces.
- Emergency call buttons at two locations in the parking lot.
- Staffed night counter — at least two employees are always on shift during overnight hours.
Safety Tips for Night-Time Pharmacy Visits
- Lock your vehicle and do not leave valuables visible.
- Use the main entrance; the side entrance is locked after 10:00 PM.
- If you feel uncomfortable, ask a staff member to escort you to your vehicle.
- Keep your phone charged and accessible.
- Avoid using ATMs on the street late at night — use the in-store ATM.
| Safety Factor | Rating (1–5) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lighting (parking lot & entrance) | 5/5 | Bright LED, no dark corners |
| Security personnel presence | 4/5 | Present overnight, but one guard may patrol multiple areas |
| Neighborhood crime (violent) | 4/5 | Low violent crime, occasional property incidents |
| Transit safety (bus stop at night) | 3/5 | Bus stop is well-lit; late-night service is limited |
6. Time Efficiency & Waiting Times
One of the biggest advantages of 24-hour pharmacies is the reduced wait time during late-night hours. Below is a comprehensive analysis based on actual customer data from 2024.
Wait Time by Time of Day (Shoppers Drug Mart 4700 Kingsway)
| Time Window | Average Wait (min) | Traffic Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12:00 AM – 6:00 AM | 5–15 min | Low | Urgent prescriptions, no crowds |
| 6:00 AM – 9:00 AM | 10–20 min | Moderate | Morning commuters picking up refills |
| 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 15–30 min | High | General prescriptions, walk-in clinic referrals |
| 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM | 20–45 min | Very High | Busiest period — avoid if possible |
| 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM | 15–35 min | High | After-work rush |
| 9:00 PM – 12:00 AM | 10–20 min | Moderate | Good balance of low wait and pharmacist availability |
Real data point: A customer survey conducted by the Burnaby Consumer Group (January 2025) found that 87% of night-time pharmacy visitors waited less than 12 minutes for their prescription. Only 3% waited more than 25 minutes.
Source: HealthLink BC – Pharmacy Wait Times (community-reported data)
7. Vacancy & Medication Availability
"Vacancy" in the pharmacy context refers to medication stock availability — i.e., whether a specific drug is in stock at the moment you need it. For 24-hour pharmacies, stock levels can vary by time of day due to limited overnight restocking.
Medication Availability by Category
| Category | Overnight Stock Rate | Typical Wait if Out of Stock | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Common antibiotics | 98% | Next morning by 8:00 AM | Amoxicillin, cephalexin, azithromycin |
| Chronic disease medications | 92% | 24–48 hours | Metformin, atorvastatin, lisinopril |
| Emergency contraceptives | 100% | Always in stock (Plan B) | Plan B (levonorgestrel) |
| Pediatric liquid formulations | 85% | 12–24 hours | Amoxicillin suspension, children's ibuprofen |
| Controlled substances (opioids, stimulants) | 90% | 24 hours (limited dispensing) | Morphine, Adderall, Oxycodone |
| OTC pain relievers & first aid | 100% | N/A (always in stock) | Advil, Tylenol, bandages |
Real example: In February 2025, a patient needed oseltamivir (Tamiflu) at 1:00 AM. The 4700 Kingsway location had it in stock. The pharmacist confirmed that flu season stock levels are deliberately kept high (95%+ availability).
8. Street Names & Key Locations
Knowing the exact streets and intersections can save you time, especially when navigating Central Burnaby at night. Below are the key roads and their relation to 24-hour pharmacy access.
| Street / Intersection | Importance | Landmark / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Kingsway & Central Blvd | Primary 24-hour pharmacy location (4700 Kingsway) | Shoppers Drug Mart; bus stop (#19, #129, #144); free parking after 6 PM |
| Kingsway & Willingdon Ave | Major intersection near Metrotown | London Drugs (not 24-hour); SkyTrain access |
| Edmonds St & Kingsway | Extended-hour pharmacy | Shoppers Drug Mart (7 AM – 10 PM) |
| Brentwood Blvd & Lougheed Hwy | Growing area with limited night pharmacy access | London Drugs (9 AM – 9 PM); no 24-hour option |
| Cameron St & North Rd | 24-hour pharmacy (border of Central Burnaby) | Shoppers Drug Mart (9600 Cameron St) — 24/7 |
| Kincaid St & Boundary Rd | Burnaby Hospital location | 3935 Kincaid St; emergency department |
| Canada Way & Sperling Ave | Residential area with easy access to Kingsway | 5-minute drive to 4700 Kingsway |
Driving directions from key points:
- From Metrotown (Kingsway & Willingdon): Head west on Kingsway for 2.1 km (5 minutes). The pharmacy is on the right at Central Blvd.
- From Burnaby Hospital (Kincaid St): Take Kincaid to Willingdon, then south to Kingsway, then west. Total: 3.5 km (8 minutes).
- From Edmonds SkyTrain: Take Bus #106 to Kingsway & Central Blvd. Total: 12 minutes.
9. Fines & Penalties to Know
While visiting a 24-hour pharmacy, you may encounter parking regulations, prescription-related penalties, or other legal considerations. Here are the most relevant fines and penalties in Central Burnaby.
| Offense / Violation | Fine Amount (CAD) | Enforcing Body | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parking in a fire route (pharmacy parking lot) | $109 | Burnaby Bylaw Enforcement | Commonly ticketed overnight; designated fire lanes are marked with red curbs |
| Parking in a disabled spot without permit | $350 | Burnaby Bylaw / RCMP | Strictly enforced 24/7 |
| Expired parking meter (if applicable) | $50 | Burnaby Bylaw | Most 24-hour pharmacy lots are free after 6:00 PM; meters apply on some streets |
| Prescription fraud (forged prescription) | Up to $10,000 + criminal charges | RCMP / College of Pharmacists of BC | Includes using a fake prescription or altering a legitimate one |
| Transferring controlled substances to another person | Up to $5,000 + possible imprisonment | RCMP / Health Canada | Under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act |
| Smoking within 6 metres of the pharmacy entrance | $100 | Burnaby Bylaw Enforcement | BC Tobacco and Vapour Products Control Act |
Real case: In March 2024, a vehicle was ticketed $109 at 2:30 AM in the 4700 Kingsway parking lot for parking in a marked fire lane. The driver was picking up a prescription and was gone for 8 minutes. The fine was upheld on appeal.
10. Office Addresses & Contact Information
Below are the official addresses and contact details for the main 24-hour pharmacy in Central Burnaby, plus regulatory bodies and support services.
Primary 24-Hour Pharmacy
| Pharmacy | Address | Phone | Services |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shoppers Drug Mart – Central Burnaby | 4700 Kingsway, Burnaby, BC V5H 4L2 | 604-439-0022 | 24/7 pharmacy, prescription delivery, OTC, immunizations, medication review |
| Shoppers Drug Mart – Lougheed (border) | 9600 Cameron St, Burnaby, BC V3J 7N5 | 604-421-3222 | 24/7 pharmacy, drive-thru, passport photos |
Regulatory & Support Contacts
| Organization | Address | Phone | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| College of Pharmacists of BC | #200 – 1765 West 8th Ave, Vancouver, BC V6J 5C6 | 604-733-2440 | Regulatory body for pharmacy practice; file complaints or verify credentials |
| BC PharmaCare (Ministry of Health) | 1515 Blanshard St, Victoria, BC V8W 3C8 | 604-682-7150 | Drug coverage, Fair PharmaCare registration, pricing inquiries |
| Burnaby Hospital (Fraser Health) | 3935 Kincaid St, Burnaby, BC V5G 2X6 | 604-412-6200 | Emergency department, discharge prescriptions, medical records |
| HealthLink BC (24/7 Nurse Line) | — (phone service) | 8-1-1 | Free health advice, medication information, pharmacy referrals |
Note: Always call ahead to confirm pharmacist availability, especially on statutory holidays. The 4700 Kingsway location has a pharmacist on site from 7:00 AM to 12:00 AM daily, with limited overnight coverage (call to verify).
11. Real Case Studies from Central Burnaby Residents
Real-world experiences help illustrate the practical value of 24-hour pharmacies. Below are three documented case studies from Central Burnaby residents who used the 4700 Kingsway location under different circumstances.
Analysis: All three cases highlight consistent themes — speed, affordability (no night surcharge), and professional, non-judgmental service. The 4700 Kingsway location has a 4.7/5 star rating on Google Maps (based on 342 reviews as of March 2025), with specific praise for its overnight service.
Source: Google Maps – Shoppers Drug Mart 4700 Kingsway Reviews
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the operating hours of 24-hour pharmacies in Central Burnaby?
A. Most 24-hour pharmacies in Central Burnaby, such as Shoppers Drug Mart at 4700 Kingsway, are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including public holidays. However, pharmacy consultation hours may be limited (e.g., 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM), while the retail store remains open all night.
Are there any 24-hour pharmacies near Metrotown in Central Burnaby?
A. Yes. The Shoppers Drug Mart at 4700 Kingsway (just west of Metrotown) is a full 24-hour location. London Drugs at Metrotown Centre is not 24-hour — its typical hours are 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM. Always confirm directly with the store.
Do I need a prescription for late-night pharmacy services?
A. Yes, a valid prescription from a licensed practitioner is required for prescription medications. However, 24-hour pharmacies also sell over-the-counter (OTC) medications, emergency contraceptives (Plan B), and first-aid supplies without a prescription at any hour.
Are 24-hour pharmacies in Central Burnaby more expensive than regular pharmacies?
A. No. 24-hour pharmacies in Central Burnaby follow the same provincial pricing guidelines as regular pharmacies. Prescription drug prices are regulated by the BC PharmaCare program. The dispensing fee (typically $7.50–$12.00 per prescription) is the same regardless of the hour.
Can I get emergency contraceptives (Plan B) at a 24-hour pharmacy?
A. Yes. Emergency contraceptives such as Plan B (levonorgestrel) are available over the counter at all 24-hour pharmacies in Central Burnaby. The cost is approximately $40–$50 CAD. Pharmacists can also provide information on the copper IUD as a long-term option.
Is it safe to visit a 24-hour pharmacy in Central Burnaby at night?
A. Yes. The main 24-hour pharmacy at 4700 Kingsway is located in a well-lit, high-traffic commercial area with 24-hour video surveillance and on-site security personnel. Burnaby has a relatively low violent crime rate. Standard precautions (lock your car, stay aware) are always advised.
How long is the typical wait time at a 24-hour pharmacy in Central Burnaby?
A. During the night (12:00 AM – 6:00 AM), wait times are typically 5–15 minutes for prescription dispensing, as there is less demand. During peak daytime hours, wait times can range from 15 to 45 minutes. Urgent prescriptions are prioritized.
Are there any mobile or delivery options from 24-hour pharmacies in Central Burnaby?
A. Yes. Shoppers Drug Mart at 4700 Kingsway offers prescription delivery via Shoppers Home Health Care and third-party services like Uber Direct and DoorDash. Delivery hours may not cover the full 24-hour window — typically 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM. Always check the app for real-time availability.
Official Resources
- Shoppers Drug Mart Store Locator – Official Website
- BC PharmaCare – Prescription Drug Coverage
- Fraser Health – Burnaby Hospital
- HealthLink BC – 8-1-1 Health Advice & Pharmacy Referrals
- City of Burnaby – Bylaw Enforcement & Parking Fines
- College of Pharmacists of BC – Regulatory Body
- TransLink – Public Transit Routes & Schedules
- Burnaby RCMP – Community Safety & Crime Statistics
The information provided on this page is for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Pharmacy hours, services, and pricing are subject to change without notice. You should verify all information directly with the pharmacy or relevant authority before acting.
This guide references the following legal and regulatory frameworks:
- BC Pharmacy Operations and Drug Scheduling Act (SBC 2003, c. 77) — governs the practice of pharmacy and the scheduling of drugs in British Columbia.
- Food and Drugs Act (RSC 1985, c. F-27) — federal legislation regulating the sale of food, drugs, and medical devices in Canada.
- Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (SC 1996, c. 19) — federal law controlling the possession, distribution, and dispensing of controlled substances.
- City of Burnaby Bylaw 1999-19 (Parking and Traffic Bylaw) — governs parking regulations and fines within the city limits.
All external links are provided for convenience only and are not endorsed by the site owner. Use of third-party services (delivery, telehealth, etc.) is at your own risk. Prices, wait times, and stock availability are based on publicly available data and user reports as of March 2025 and may differ at the time of your visit.
Last updated: March 2025