Province Moves To Protect Supply Of Two More Diabetes Drugs

The Province is limiting sales of drugs (tirzepatide and dulaglutide) commonly known by the brand names Mounjaro and Trulicity, to preserve the supply for people with diabetes who really need it.

In 2023, the provincial government added a “limits on sale” regulation to prevent sales of drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy to non-Canadian residents, to limit the impact of a supply shortage.

“Tirzepatide, dulaglutide and semaglutide are prescription drugs approved for the management of Type 2 diabetes, but their off-label use for weight loss is driving shortages of the drugs in several countries, including the United States,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Health.

“Our government is continuing to take action to ensure that people living with diabetes have reliable access to these essential medications.”

Drugs in the regulation can be purchased from B.C. pharmacies, online or in-person, by B.C. residents, Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
B.C. pharmacists will not be able to sell to people who are not a citizen or permanent resident of Canada and who are not at the pharmacy in person.

The College of Pharmacists of B.C. is responsible for ensuring that college registrants comply with the regulation.

To see the full release, visit Government of British Columbia.