The Province of British Columbia is expanding its drug sale restrictions to include tirzepatide and dulaglutide—marketed as Mounjaro and Trulicity—to ensure continued access for people with Type 2 diabetes.
The move builds on previous limits introduced in 2023 for semaglutide-based medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. The updated regulations fall under the Pharmacy Operations and Drug Scheduling Act, aimed at protecting drug availability amid rising global demand.
Off-label use of these drugs for weight loss has surged, particularly in the U.S., contributing to ongoing supply shortages. B.C. Health Minister Josie Osborne said the government is committed to maintaining reliable access for patients with diabetes who depend on these medications.
The new rules restrict pharmacies in B.C. from selling the drugs to non-Canadians unless the purchase is made in person and accompanied by a prescription from a Canadian doctor or nurse practitioner. Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and B.C. residents can still access the medications either in person or online.
Oversight and enforcement of the new rules will be handled by the College of Pharmacists of B.C.
The government says these measures are necessary to balance fair access with responsible stewardship of limited drug supplies.
