Canada is seeing a shortage of codeine and oxycodone painkillers due to manufacturing delays and rising demand. Health Canada urges patients not to panic.
Short Supply of Painkillers Raises National Concern
A nationwide shortage of prescription painkillers containing acetaminophen with codeine and oxycodone is now affecting patients across Canada. Health Canada confirmed the disruption, citing manufacturing delays and heightened demand as key factors. These widely used medications—often prescribed for acute or chronic pain—are becoming harder to access, prompting concern among health-care providers.
Manufacturing Disruptions Spark Chain Reaction
The supply issue began with delays from Teva Canada, a major pharmaceutical company that experienced disruptions in receiving active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) from its overseas suppliers. This affected its ability to manufacture both acetaminophen with codeine (commonly known as Tylenol 3) and acetaminophen with oxycodone (sold under brand names like Percocet). Other suppliers, including Apotex and Laboratoire Riva, have been unable to compensate for the shortfall, leading to a national ripple effect.
Recovery Timeline Projects Relief by September
In a statement, Teva Canada acknowledged the delay and indicated it plans to accelerate production, with initial supplies expected in early August 2025. Full availability of the affected medications is projected to return by September. Meanwhile, Health Canada says it is collaborating with drug manufacturers, provincial governments, and health-care professionals to manage the situation and secure alternative options.
Health Experts Urge Calm and Coordination
“This is not a shortage you want to see—especially with such commonly used painkillers,” said Dr. Mina Tadrous, associate professor at the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Pharmacy. He emphasized that shortages like this often have a domino effect across the system, as patients and prescribers shift to alternative medications, putting pressure on other supply chains.
Pharmacists Equipped to Manage Shortages
Despite the disruption, the Canadian Pharmacists Association has reassured the public that pharmacists are prepared. “There are alternatives available,” said Sadaf Faisal, senior director of professional affairs. “The key is not to panic—talk to your health-care provider or pharmacist.” Pharmacists are using clinical tools and internal resources to help patients switch medications safely and effectively based on individual medical needs.
Patients Advised to Renew Prescriptions Early
Faisal also urged patients not to wait until they’re almost out of their medication to refill prescriptions, noting that early planning can ease strain on the system. The association has released new clinical guidance for pharmacists, including switching protocols and monitoring practices to ensure patient safety.
System Under Stress, But Support in Place
While the shortage adds pressure to Canada’s already stretched health-care system, experts maintain that patients will continue to receive the treatment they need. “It’s burdensome,” said Tadrous, “but manageable.” With coordinated responses from regulators, pharmacists, and physicians, the country is working to mitigate the impact while production ramps back up.
