Expired prescription: can the pharmacist extend it?

What changes?

According to the summary published by the Ordre, there is no longer a general legislative limit on how long an extension can last. The pharmacist may extend an expired prescription if they judge that treatment should not be interrupted.

They may also extend a prescription from any professional authorized to prescribe in Canada, provided that professional could issue the same prescription if practising in Québec.

Is it automatic?

No. Assessment, follow-up and recording in the file are still required. The pharmacist may also conclude that it is better to refer you to another professional. They will recommend that you book an appointment with the professional responsible for your clinical follow-up: an extension does not replace that follow-up.

What about designated substances?

An extension is possible for designated substances (narcotics, controlled drugs, targeted substances), up to two years after the prescription was dispensed. However, the pharmacist cannot start these treatments under this framework.

What to do if your prescription is about to expire

• Do not wait until the last moment: renew ahead of time when you can.
• Call the pharmacy that has your file and ask whether it offers this service.
• Ask whether fees apply.
• Book your follow-up appointment with your professional.

For pharmacies

Plan how the request is received at the counter, who assesses it, how the decision is recorded and how the prescriber receives information useful to future decisions. Details are on our page on what changes.

Sources: OPQ, summary of what is new (in French) · OPQ, practice guide on professional activities (in French) · Québec Ministry of Health, announcement of August 20, 2026 (in French)

General information based on the publications cited. This text does not replace professional or legal advice, or the Ordre’s guides.