Prescription painkillers shortage in Canada expected to continue into new year – CTV
November 03, 2025
TORONTO — Pharmacists say a shortage of medications that contain oxycodone is expected to continue into the new year, while supply of another type of painkiller has increased since a nationwide disruption in the summer.
In July, Health Canada sent out a notice about a shortage of drugs that contain acetaminophen with oxycodone, which includes those by the brand name Percocet.
There was also a shortage of acetaminophen with codeine, which includes Tylenol 3.
It was supposed to last until early fall, caused by manufacturing disruptions.
These medications are prescribed to treat a range of ailments, from those enduring acute injuries to chronic back pain.
Sadaf Faisal, senior director of professional affairs at the Canadian Pharmacists Association, said the codeine-containing medications such as Tylenol 3 are back in stock. Supply is still limited for Tylenol 2 and 4, which she said are prescribed less often.
The shortage of drugs containing acetaminophen with oxycodone are ongoing and Faisal said the manufacturer has indicated some supply will be available in December, though there will be constraints because of backorders.
