The national shortage of Canada's common prescription painkillers could continue until early August.
Last week, Health Canada notified that they were experiencing a shortage of drugs containing acetaminophen, which includes codeine or oxycodone, which is used to relieve pain.
Acetaminophen, which contains oxycodone, is often found under the brand percoset, but the combination of acetaminophen and codeine is known as Tylenol No. 3.
Other formulations include Teva-Oxycocet, Teva-Lenoltic No. 1, 2, 3, 4, and Rivacocet.
Some companies that manufacture combinations of both medications, such as Teva Canada Ltd., Laboratoire Riva Inc. and Pharmascience Inc., have reported issues with confusion and increased demand as a cause of shortages.
The Canadian Pharmacists Association told Global News it is working with Health Canada and is in touch with manufacturers and suppliers to assess potential impacts.
Depending on the shortage, the CPA said the pharmacist is limiting the amount given to patients.
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“Normally, pharmacists need to distribute the amounts written on their prescriptions unless they are limited by their drug plan,” said Sadaf Faisal, senior director of the CPA's professional.
“In these circumstances, pharmacists have documented their prescriptions that they only supply for 30 days due to lack of adequate supply.”
She said some pharmacists are also looking for supplies from other pharmacies.
The shortage is expected to last until early August, when “important supplies” is expected.
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Health Canada said as the shortage continues, Canadians should talk to a doctor or pharmacist if they have concerns about the availability of any of the drugs.
It states that if certain medications are not available, other options may be available.
“Pharmacists and other healthcare providers can help them (patients) navigate this shortage,” Faisal said. “We can identify alternatives. We can provide guidance on safe and effective pain management, which is really important as it can affect the quality of life of many patients.”
However, Faisal notes that controlled drug and substance laws prevent pharmacists from changing their prescriptions or offering alternatives without consulting their doctor to approve the proposal.
The shortage could end within weeks, but Health Canada is also urging Canadians to use licensed pharmacies to receive medication and buy only products that are permitted to sell in Canada.
We also advise people to avoid purchasing from unlicensed, unverified online sellers, as products may not contain active ingredients or harmful ingredients that have not been declared.
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