TORONTO — Two pediatric hospitals in Ontario say they are facing shortages of commonly used painkillers due to supply disruptions in parts of Canada.
The management of the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto and the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) in Ottawa say they are taking steps to maintain the supply of liquid Tylenol and Advil for children. admitted patients and help find solutions for children being discharged.
In a memo to caregivers earlier this week, authorities said health workers would provide prescriptions for the liquid form of acetaminophen, known by the brand name Tylenol.
A Toronto Hospital spokeswoman clarified that while some retailers may have these over-the-counter medications in stock, other pharmacies may only have large bottles that can only be dispensed by a pharmacist.
A CHEO spokesperson said in an email that the hospital encourages parents to seek alternatives for fever and pain management.
An industry group of which the maker of Tylenol is a member says there are places in Canada where shortages have occurred.