Canada prohibits some bulk prescription drug exports to prevent shortages

New rule counters American measures authorizing U.S. pharmacists to import in bulk prescription drugs intended for the Canadian market

The Government of Canada announced that, starting November 27, certain drugs intended for the Canadian market are prohibited from being distributed for consumption outside of Canada if that sale would cause or worsen a drug shortage in Canada.

The Government says companies will now also be required to provide information to assess existing or potential shortages, when requested, and within 24 hours if there is a serious or imminent health risk.

The new measures build on consultations started in 2019 with the health care community to respond to the United States (U.S.) Importation of Prescription Drugs rule, which came into effect November 30, 2020. This rule creates a pathway to allow licensed U.S. pharmacists or wholesalers to import in bulk certain prescription drugs intended for the Canadian market.

Link: Backgrounder: Interim Order Respecting Drug Shortages (Safeguarding the Drug Supply)