Update on the Short Supply of Aminophylline in Canada

Aminophylline is an injected pharmacologic agent that reverses the effects of medicines used during pharmacological stress tests.

In Canada, aminophylline is marketed by Omega Laboratories Ltd. As many CCS members may already be aware, Omega Laboratories is reporting a shortage of aminophylline due to a manufacturing disruption, leading to limited supplies being available in Canada – as well as an expected depletion of all supplies by May 2024. The shortage is expected to last until mid-July 2024.

The Canadian Cardiovascular Society and the Canadian Society of Cardiovascular Nuclear and CT Imaging (CNCT) have been actively engaged with Health Canada on this issue, and we are working together to ensure that addressing a shortage is a top priority. In a statement issued on their website this week, Health Canada shared that they are working with the manufacturer and various stakeholders to monitor the supply of aminophylline in real time. Recently, Health Canada authorized the import of 10,000 ampoules of Greek-authorized aminophylline and is also looking at how alternate sources of this drug can be made available within Canada soon.

Update as of April 26, 2024: Health Canada has approved the second proposal for foreign-authorized product. The total quantity authorized equates to just over four months’ supply, and should be sufficient until the Canadian resupplies can be brought in. Both shipments are expected to arrive the week of April 29, 2024.

We will continue to update you on this important issue as we learn more.

If you have any questions or concerns related to the ongoing aminophylline shortage, please contact communications@ccs.ca.