Sask. lifting limits on prescription refills as supply chains stabilize

The Saskatchewan government has lifted the previously imposed limit on prescription refills as of May 20, leaving residents free to refill their long-term prescriptions as they did prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Restrictions were put in place on March 18, limiting residents to only one month of prescription refills at a time, to protect pharmacies from suffering further supply shortages of certain medications.

There will be some situations in which residents continue to be limited in refills of specific drugs, such as salbutamol inhalers, some sedatives, and certain antibiotics. Pharmacists are instructed to dispense these medications based on their own judgement.

“As we navigate the unknowns presented by COVID-19, ensuring the availability of medications for all Saskatchewan residents is a priority,” said Health Minister Jim Reiter in a press release. “Today, the drug supply is in a more stable position due to the actions of pharmacists, patients and other stakeholders in response to the prescription limits. We sincerely thank them for their support and understanding.”

The restrictions did not affect the majority of Saskatchewan residents, the press release revealed, but were put in place to help stabilize the supply chain to ensure patients had continued access to necessary medications.