Shortage of Loxapac (loxapine) intramuscular 50 mg/mL injection in Canada: Notice
Date published: July 4, 2024
Date updated: November 28, 2024
Update: November 28, 2024 – Resolution of Shortage
Loxapac is now available across the country, thanks to a steady supply.
Health Canada will continue to monitor the supply of Loxapac. We will update this page if there is any new information to share.
On this page
Background
Loxapac, with loxapine as the active ingredient (Loxapac IM), is used to manage schizophrenia. Health care providers administer it by injection into the muscle.
In Canada, Sandoz Canada Inc. markets Loxapac IM. Sandoz is reporting a shortage due to a manufacturing disruption and estimates the shortage will end by September 20, 2024. Until then, this medication in hospitals and pharmacies will be limited.
What we’re doing
We recognize the importance of Loxapac IM for patients. Addressing this shortage is a top priority.
We're communicating with health care providers, provincial and territorial governments, and distributors to coordinate the sharing of information about this shortage.
We’re also working with manufacturers and stakeholders to monitor the supply of Loxapac and looking at how these products can be made more available.
To help mitigate this shortage, Sandoz has indicated that Loxapac IM 50 mg/mL injection, lot number LL8849, with original printed expiry date of May 2024, can be safely used until November 2024.
Sandoz also indicated it will work beyond the printed expiry date.
You should verify if the lot number and printed expiry date on the bottle correspond to this information. If you have any questions about this, a health care provider such as a pharmacist can help you verify.
Do not consume a drug product beyond its extended expiry date.
What you can do
Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions or concerns about this shortage.
Report any problems or adverse events with a health product to Health Canada.
Check this webpage regularly as we will update it when new information becomes available. Also look for information about shortages and their expected end date on the Drug Shortages Canada website.
Learn more about drug shortages in Canada.