British Columbia Limits Sales of Diabetes Drugs Amid Off-Label Use Concerns

In a significant move aimed at addressing off-label usage and ensuring availability for those with diabetes, British Columbia's Ministry of Health has announced new regulations limiting the sales of two diabetes medications: tirzepatide, known commercially as Mounjaro, and dulaglutide, marketed as Trulicity. The new rules, effective immediately, require that non-residents of Canada collect their prescriptions in person at pharmacies, a measure designed to curb the increasing off-label demand for these drugs for weight loss.

Health Minister Josie Osborne emphasized the urgency of this decision, citing the alarming shortages of these essential medications that have arisen due to their misuse in weight management. "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 in several countries, including the United States," Osborne stated in a press release dated July 17, 2025. This follows an earlier regulation established in 2023, which had already limited sales of semaglutide, a drug known under various brand names such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus.

The Ministry's new regulations stipulate that while these medications will remain accessible to British Columbia residents, Canadian citizens, and permanent residents with valid prescriptions, non-residents must present themselves at pharmacies to obtain their prescriptions, thus limiting the potential for misuse. This policy aims not only to preserve the supply for diabetic patients but also to ensure that those in need have reliable access to these crucial medications.

Experts are weighing in on the implications of these regulatory changes. Dr. Tom Elliott, medical director at B.C. Diabetes, remarked on the significant impact semaglutide has had on diabetes management. He noted, "Semaglutide injections have revolutionized my practice; they are astonishingly effective in regulating blood sugar levels and aiding weight management in diabetic patients."

In addition, the Ministry of Health has pointed to international trends regarding these medications, particularly the escalating demand for non-diabetic uses. The U.S. has faced similar supply challenges, prompting the Canadian government to act decisively to ensure that its citizens living with diabetes are not adversely affected by these issues. According to a statement from Health Canada, the rising off-label use has exacerbated the strain on supplies, further justifying the need for stringent measures in British Columbia.

As for the future of these medications, the landscape is set to change further in January 2026, when the patent for Ozempic expires. This development is expected to facilitate the introduction of more affordable generic versions of semaglutide, potentially easing access for diabetic patients. However, the Ministry remains vigilant about the need to differentiate between legitimate medical use and off-label consumption.

The College of Pharmacists of B.C. has been tasked with enforcing these new regulations to ensure compliance among its registrants. This latest policy underscores the ongoing challenges faced by health authorities in managing prescription drug availability while addressing public health needs. As the situation evolves, further insights from healthcare professionals and regulatory bodies will be critical in shaping the future of diabetes treatment in Canada.