Background
In response to Health Canada’s new federal Controlled Substances Regulations (CSR), which came into effect on October 1, 2026, the College of Pharmacists of Manitoba (CPhM) is proposing updates to several controlled substance practice requirements. These changes are to ensure CPhM practice requirements align with the CSR and effectively promote controlled substance accountability.
As part of these changes, CPhM has developed a new Controlled Substance Accountability Practice Direction. The proposed practice direction is intended to update CPhM controlled substance accountability requirements and prevent drug diversion. If approved, this new practice direction will replace the existing Narcotic and Controlled Drug Accountability Guidelines and several sections of the Drug Distribution and Storage Practice Direction.
CPhM is also proposing amendments to existing practice directions to support the implementation of the new Controlled Substance Accountability Practice Direction and ensure alignment with the CSR.
Proposed Changes
CPhM is seeking feedback from pharmacy professionals, system partners, and the public on:
- A new Controlled Substance Accountability Practice Direction
- Amendments to the following existing practice directions:
The proposed practice directions and an executive summary of the changes can be found here: https://cphm.ca/executive-summary-controlled-susbtances-practice-direction-amendments/
Importance to Your Pharmacy Practice
The new practice direction and proposed amendments will affect how pharmacy professionals handle, monitor, store, and destroy controlled substances, as well as clarify minimum requirements for facility security.
Importance for the Public
The new practice direction and proposed amendments are intended to protect the public by deterring controlled substance diversion from pharmacies.
Consultation Period
CPhM Council has approved a 30-day consultation period for the proposed amendments and the new practice direction.
CPhM invites you to read the practice directions and provide your feedback. Feedback can be provided via an online survey: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/azK6QVs78H.
All responses will be provided to the CPhM Professional Practice Committee and Council to inform Council’s final approval of the proposed practice directions. Feedback will be accepted until November 22, 2026.
Should you have any questions, please email info@cphm.ca .