Adult flu medication now in short supply in Saskatchewan

The shortage Canada experienced in children’s pain and flu medication is now being felt in adult medication.

Pharmacy Association of Saskatchewan CEO Michael Fougere confirmed the shortage is affecting Saskatchewan pharmacies.

He said that as of right now, the lack of medication is not at a critical level.

“There are spotty places where there are a lack of the medications, (but) there are some places that do have supply,” Fougere said.

“We have a really big flu season here, it’s been stronger then many years in the past and we’re concerned about that and of course that’s driving the demand for medications.”

According to Fougere, the shortages being seen across the country and in Saskatchewan is because of unexpectedly high demand.

He said while this is one of the main issues, it’s not the only one. Fougere also mentioned distribution as being one of the causes.

“It’s a complex issue and it’s not just because there may be manufacturers not making enough, it’s also how its distributed,” Fougere said.

He believes manufacturers should be distributing their supplies more equally around the province to prevent the shortages from happening.

“Every year is different. Maybe next year the flu isn’t nearly as strong as this year, but it is hard to control. These things are really out of the control of individuals, pharmacists or public health officials,” he said.

Fougere said he has heard from pharmacists about the concerns about the lack of medication.

“We do the best we can, I know the province can do what it can to ensure those supplies are there as well,” he said.

In November, Health Canada secured a foreign supply of kids medication during the peak of the shortage concerns.

He explained there are alternatives if the medication people want is not available.

“If you’re looking for Tylenol and that title, you may not get that. There will be another medication that is equally as effective for you. If you talk to your pharmacist, they’ll let you know what that is,” Fougere said.

Additionally, pharmacists are able to compound medication because of the shortages.