What is the legal status of prescription drugs in Canada?

By LegalMatters Staff • Consuming prescription drugs in a manner not prescribed by a medical practitioner is illegal and dangerous, the latter shown by the 7,328 deaths from opioid overdoses across Canada in 2022.

“Only a doctor, dentist, veterinarian, nurse practitioner or midwife can legally prescribe prescription drugs,” says Ottawa criminal lawyer Céline Dostaler. “Medications most misused are anabolic steroids, painkillers, stimulants and tranquillizers/barbiturates.”

She explained anabolic steroids promote the growth of muscles as well as the development of male sexual features and are legitimately used to treat medical conditions such as delayed puberty or cancer.

“When they are sold on the street, they are called names such as Roids, Juice, Doping and Arnolds,” says Dostaler.

Painkillers such as morphine, oxycodone/oxycontin and codeine are popular as they release dopamine in the brain, she says, triggering sensations of happiness and pleasure.

“They also interfere with the transmission of pain messages to the brain,” says Dostaler. “On the street, they are referred to as Oxy, Big C, Killer and Hillbilly Heroin.”

Common stimulants that are trafficked include Ritalin and Adderall, she says.

“They go by the street names of Kiddles and Bits, Kiddy Cocaine, Skippy, Smarties and Smart Drug,” says Dostaler. “People use them illegally believing they will increase energy levels and reduce hunger.”

Valium, Xanax and Ativan are the most common forms of tranquillizers/barbiturates and are prescribed for anxiety or sleep problems, she says.

“People illegally take these drugs to relieve anxiety and stress and enhance their enjoyment,” says Dostaler. “Side effects may include impaired coordination, slurred speech, paranoia, aggressiveness, liver damage and sleep problems.”