BC Expands Restrictions on Diabetes Drugs Amidst Weight Loss Frenzy
VICTORIA, BC – British Columbia is tightening its grip on the sale of two more popular diabetes medications, tirzepatide and dulaglutide, to combat widespread off-label use for weight loss and safeguard supply for those with diabetes. This move builds upon similar restrictions implemented last year for semaglutide, famously known as Ozempic.
July 17, 2025
The new regulations, announced by the Ministry of Health, will prevent B.C.pharmacists from selling these Type 2 diabetes drugs to individuals who are not Canadian citizens or permanent residents, unless they are present at the pharmacy in person. Health Minister Josie Osborne highlighted that the escalating demand for these drugs in weight management has led to critical shortages in various countries, including the United States.
While the primary goal is to ensure consistent access for diabetic patients, the ministry clarified that non-residents and foreign citizens with a valid Canadian prescription can still purchase the medications if they present in person at a pharmacy. Tirzepatide and dulaglutide are widely recognized by their brand names, Mounjaro and Trulicity, respectively.
The College of Pharmacists of B.C. has been tasked with overseeing compliance with these new sales limitations among its registered members.
