Oxycodone Shortage to Continue into New Year, Pharmacists Say
A nationwide shortage of medications containing oxycodone is expected to persist into 2026, while supplies of some other commonly prescribed painkillers have begun to stabilize, according to pharmacists.
Health Canada issued a notice in July regarding the shortage of drugs containing acetaminophen with oxycodone, including Percocet, and acetaminophen with codeine, like Tylenol 3, initially predicting the disruption would last until early fall due to manufacturing issues. While Tylenol 3 is now back in stock, supply remains limited for Tylenol 2 and 4, which are prescribed less frequently. Sadaf Faisal, senior director of professional affairs at the Canadian Pharmacists Association, stated the manufacturer of oxycodone-containing medications anticipates some supply in December, but backorders will continue to create constraints. “We are hoping that by the new year the situation will improve,” Faisal said.
The ongoing shortages impact Canadians managing both acute injuries and chronic pain conditions, potentially leading to increased suffering and difficulty accessing necessary treatment. Switching patients to alternative pain medications can be a lengthy and resource-intensive process, straining an already burdened healthcare system. “Talking to pharmacists and a team early before you run out of medications is so important because no one wants to be dealing with it the day that you have nothing left,” explained Mina Tadrous, an associate professor at the University of Toronto’s pharmacy faculty. Drug shortages are a frequent occurrence in Canada, with between 1,500 and 2,000 active shortages at any given time, according to the Canadian Pharmacists Association.
Health officials are urging patients to proactively discuss potential medication alternatives with their healthcare providers and pharmacists. The Canadian government is working with manufacturers to address supply chain vulnerabilities and prevent future disruptions, as detailed by Health Canada.
Pharmacists anticipate the situation will continue to be monitored closely, with further updates expected as the new year approaches.
