Bicillin L‑A (penicillin G benzathine) in short supply: Notice
Date published: December 19, 2025
Date updated: February 6, 2026
On this page
Background
Bicillin L-A (penicillin G benzathine) is a prescription drug used to treat certain infections. It is the main antibiotic used to treat syphilis that does not involve the central nervous system.
In Canada, Bicillin L-A is marketed by Pfizer Canada ULC. Pfizer is reporting a shortage that is expected to last until early March 2026 due to a manufacturing disruption.
What we're doing
We recognize the importance of having Bicillin L-A available for patients. Addressing this shortage is a top priority.
We're communicating with health care providers, provincial and territorial governments, the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) and Indigenous Services Canada to share information about this shortage.
We're also working with the manufacturer and other impacted stakeholders to monitor the supply of Bicillin L-A.
In the meantime, we have allowed the importation of Lentocilin S 1200 (benzathine benzylpenicillin) from Portugal. Benzathine benzylpenicillin is another name for penicillin G benzathine. Septa Pharmaceuticals Inc. is the importer.
For more information, visit the list of drugs for exceptional importation and sale.
What you can do
Speak to your health care provider if you have questions or concerns about this shortage.
PHAC has developed recommendations for health care providers on treating syphilis when there is a shortage of Bicillin L-A:
Check this webpage regularly as we will update it if new information becomes available.
Learn more about drug shortages in Canada and how Canadians can deal with drug shortages.