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Canada Faces Pain Medication Shortage Amid Rising Demand

7/25/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Canada is grappling with a significant shortage of essential prescription pain medications like acetaminophen with codeine and oxycodone, anticipated to persist until early August. This crisis stems from manufacturing disruptions and soaring demand. Pharmacists are restricting supplies and urging patients to avoid dubious online purchases, while Health Canada and the Canadian Pharmacists Association work diligently to resolve the situation.

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Story summary

Canada is grappling with a significant shortage of essential prescription pain medications like acetaminophen with codeine and oxycodone, anticipated to persist until early August. This crisis stems from manufacturing disruptions and soaring demand. Pharmacists are restricting supplies and urging patients to avoid dubious online purchases, while Health Canada and the Canadian Pharmacists Association work diligently to resolve the situation.