A Tier 3 shortage affecting 50% dextrose injection is moving into a new supply phase, with some Canadian products constrained into February
OTTAWA — HEALTH – Canadian hospitals are entering November with a critical shortage of 50 per cent dextrose injection, an emergency intravenous product used to restore blood sugar in severe hypoglycaemia.
Health Canada lists the product as a Tier 3 shortage, the category reserved for shortages with the greatest potential effect on the national drug supply and health-care system.
The Canadian Society of Hospital Pharmacists says anticipated national disruptions affect Canadian suppliers and presentations. Juno’s 50-millilitre vials are expected to remain in shortage through November, while Pfizer’s pre-filled syringes are expected to be affected from November through February 2027.
Why the product matters
The Canadian product monograph says 50 per cent dextrose injection is indicated for insulin-related hypoglycaemia and restores blood glucose when given intravenously. It may also be diluted to provide carbohydrate calories when oral intake is inadequate.
A shortage does not mean every hospital has no stock. Availability can vary by product, region and institution, and clinicians may use alternative concentrations or treatment approaches based on a patient’s needs and local protocols.
The national designation signals that health systems may need conservation, substitution and procurement measures to preserve emergency access. Patients should not alter treatment or seek injectable dextrose without medical direction.
Mitigation work underway
The hospital pharmacists’ society says Health Canada is working with manufacturers and considering expiry-date extensions for existing Pfizer inventory and exceptional importation of foreign-authorized supply.
No public source reviewed for this package confirmed that exceptional imports have been approved for this specific shortage. Supply dates are manufacturer estimates and may change.
Hospitals and paramedic services should continue to follow provincial procurement notices and clinical guidance. NetNewsLedger should monitor Health Canada’s Tier 3 list and manufacturer shortage reports for any change in status or resupply timing.
