Statement from Health Canada on the supply of EpiPen 0.3 mg auto-injectors

OTTAWA, July 19, 2019 /CNW/ - Health Canada is aware that Pfizer Canada is reporting that a shortage of its 0.3 mg format EpiPen auto-injector may lead to temporary supply constraints in the coming months. EpiPen Jr (0.15 mg) is not affected by this shortage.

Health Canada recognizes how important epinephrine auto-injectors are for people with life threatening allergies. Based on information to date, Health Canada anticipates there will be adequate supply of epinephrine auto-injectors in Canada to meet the needs of Canadians over the coming months.

The Interim Order that facilitates the import of an alternative epinephrine auto-injector, Auvi-Q, remains in effect, and Auvi-Q remains available for Canadians to access. The Interim Order was signed by the Minister of Health last year as an emergency measure in response to a previous EpiPen shortage.

Health Canada will not hesitate to facilitate the import of additional international supply of epinephrine auto-injectors if necessary. Our continuing priority is a consistent and sustainable supply of authorized auto-injectors that meets the needs of Canadians over the long term.

Companies are required to report actual and anticipated drug shortages and discontinuations on the third-party website DrugShortagesCanada.ca. Pfizer reported this shortage on July 16, 2019, and has informed Health Canada that it continues to ship product to Canada, that it is carefully managing existing supply, and that supply constraints may be experienced. 

The Department is monitoring the situation very closely and working with Pfizer, provinces and territories, and stakeholders to prevent impacts on Canadians who rely on these life-saving devices.

SOURCE Health Canada