Here’s a summary of the provided text about drug shortages in Canada:
Key Drugs Affected:
Acetaminophen with codeine (e.g., tylenol 3)
Acetaminophen with oxycodone (e.g., Percocet)
Reason for Shortage:
Manufacturing disruptions by Teva Canada Limited are the primary cause.
Teva cited a “short delay in our supply chain relating to the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) shipment from our supplier.”
Impact:
These medications are becoming harder to get and “may not always be available.”
The shortage of one company’s product leads to increased demand on other companies, which they cannot fully meet. This creates a “domino effect” as patients and healthcare providers switch to option generic options,straining those supplies as well.
The drugs are prescribed for both acute pain (post-surgery, dental procedures) and chronic pain.What is Being Done:
Health Canada is working closely with manufacturers, healthcare providers, and provinces/territories to monitor the situation and explore options to increase access.
The Canadian Pharmacists Association is in close contact with Health Canada and monitoring the situation.
They have published a clinical resource for pharmacists to guide them on alternative medications, switching strategies, and monitoring.Advice for Patients:
“Don’t panic.”
Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist. They have resources and can provide safer alternatives.
Don’t wait until you are almost out of your medication to renew prescriptions.
Pharmacists can work with patients to fine-tune suitable alternatives based on individual conditions, medications, and medical histories.
Teva’s Outlook:
Teva expects to accelerate production for an initial supply in early August 2025.
* full supply is expected to be restored in Canada by September 2025.
