Drug shortages in Canada: How CPhA helps our health system respond

From front-line guidance to national advocacy, CPhA equips providers, policymakers and patients to navigate drug shortages.

Drug shortages are among the most persistent challenges facing Canada’s health-care system, creating uncertainty and other challenges for patients, providers and policymakers. The Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) plays a critical role in helping the system respond—developing trusted resources, advocating at national tables and keeping the public informed. In recent weeks, for example, CPhA spokespeople have taken part in dozens of TV and radio interviews, including live spots with CBC outlets across the country, to explain the acetaminophen with codeine or oxycodone shortage, reassure Canadians that alternatives exist and encourage them to seek guidance from their pharmacist. Here's a look at just some of the ways CPhA helps our health system respond to drug shortages

Supporting pharmacists through high-profile shortages: CPhA has stepped up during all of Canada’s most high-profile shortages—from EpiPens and valsartan recalls to recent shortages of pediatric analgesics, antibiotics and opioid combination products. In the past 24 months alone, our clinical editors, working with partners across the system where applicable, have developed more than 15 bilingual clinical guidance documents to help front-line providers respond quickly. These shortage tools are among the most sought-after and high-value resources we produce, accessed by tens of thousands of health professionals each year.

Representing pharmacists at the national level: CPhA ensures the profession is represented at key government tables. We are an active member of Health Canada’s Multi-Stakeholder Steering Committee and the Tier Assignment Committee, which prioritize critical shortages and shape Canada’s response. We also participate in ad hoc working groups on urgent issues to bring pharmacy perspectives forward and ensure policies reflect front-line realities.

Informing patients and the public: Beyond supporting pharmacists, CPhA works to keep Canadians informed. Our spokespeople frequently provide trusted commentary to national and regional media, most recently on the opioid combination shortage. By clearly explaining what’s driving shortages, reassuring patients that solutions exist and urging them to consult their pharmacist, we help reduce confusion, build awareness and support the broader health system’s response.

Front-line data and insights: Pharmacists live the reality of shortages every day, and CPhA captures these experiences to inform decision-makers. Earlier this year, we hosted webinars and convened the pharmacy community to prepare for the potential impact of international tariffs on Canada’s drug supply, bringing stakeholders together to get ahead of possible disruptions. To continue monitoring the issue, we are conducting an ongoing monthly survey, providing real-world data that we share with Health Canada and industry partners to ensure pharmacy perspectives inform national response strategies.

Advocating for long-term solutions: CPhA has long advocated for structural solutions, including mandatory shortage reporting introduced in 2017. Today, we are urging government to invest in shortage preparedness and pharmacist supports. A critical priority is addressing restrictions under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA), which prevent pharmacists from adapting prescriptions for controlled substances like opioids during shortages. Greater flexibility would allow pharmacists to respond more quickly, reducing delays and improving patient care.

A commitment to patients and providers: At its core, CPhA’s drug shortage work is about protecting patients. Every tool we develop, table we sit at and media appearance we make is built on the knowledge that pharmacists are essential to mitigating the impact of shortages and helping patients navigate them on the frontlines. As shortages continue to challenge the system, we must ensure pharmacists have the support they need to deliver safe, timely and effective care.