Shortage of prescription painkillers in Canada expected to last until 2026 – CBC

Other pain medications can be prescribed as alternatives, pharmacist says

Nov 04, 2025

Pharmacists say a shortage of medications that contain oxycodone is expected to continue in Canada into the new year, while supply of another type of painkiller has increased since a countrywide 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 and was caused by manufacturing disruptions.

These medications are prescribed to treat a range of ailments, from acute injuries to chronic back pain.

Read more: https://www.cbc.ca/news/health/painkiller-prescription-shortage-9.6965942