The Newfoundland and Labrador Prescription Drug Program

Changes that will Affect the Cost of Non-Prescription Drugs Currently
Provided to You by the Drug Program

The Program will be setting a maximum price for certain "over the counter" drugs that are currently covered by the Program.

These changes are designed to provide you with the most effective benefits at the lowest cost to ensure that the Drug Program remains available for the future. Before any changes were made, the Government consulted with the Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association and the Newfoundland Pharmaceutical Association to ensure changes would not interfere with your care.

Many drugs have different brands. Some of these brand name drugs are less expensive than others, they may be different in color, size, coating or flavor; however, they all contain the same ingredients.

Yes. All drugs sold in Canada must meet regulations that have been set by Health Canada. In many cases, even hospitals use lower cost drugs safely and effectively.

What if I want to buy a higher priced brand drug?

You are free to choose a higher priced brand, but you will be required to pay the difference in price from the amount of the drug that YOU choose and the price that the Drug Program will pay pharmacies.

Physicians and pharmacies in the province have been given a list of the drugs which will be affected by this new change. If you have any questions whether a particular drug is affected by this change, feel free to ask the Department of Health, your physician or your pharmacist.

Low Cost Brand Drugs are SAFE, EFFECTIVE and ECONOMICAL