GLP-1 receptor agonist
Dulaglutide in Canada: prescription, brands, pricing
This page summarises the situation of Dulaglutide in Canada under Health Canada: prescription status, available brands and generics, pharmacy dispensing, and online options in CAD. Dulaglutide belongs to the GLP-1 receptor agonist class.
- Regulator
- Health Canada
- Currency
- CAD
About Dulaglutide
The medication is approved in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus, as monotherapy when metformin is inappropriate or as add-on therapy to other antidiabetics, to improve glycaemic control. Canada classifies medications as Schedule I (prescription), II (pharmacist-only OTC), III (open OTC) or unscheduled, with provincial variation. Provincial drug plans cover prescription costs at varying rates.
Mechanism and action
Dulaglutide activates the GLP-1 receptor in pancreatic beta cells, stimulating glucose-dependent insulin secretion and suppressing inappropriate glucagon release from alpha cells.
Brands and generics in Canada
In Canada, Dulaglutide is typically dispensed as one internationally recognised brand along with their corresponding authorised generics. Canadian pharmacies (Shoppers Drug Mart, Rexall, London Drugs and many independents) are licensed provincially, and pharmacists in several provinces can prescribe for minor ailments. Brand-to-generic substitution is decided by the pharmacist under local Health Canada equivalence rules, and the price difference in CAD is usually substantial.
Online and tele-prescribing access
Online pharmacy is regulated provincially in Canada; cross-border imports are restricted. Tele-prescribing platforms have expanded prescription access since 2020. For Dulaglutide specifically, the legal online options in Canada depend on its Rx-or-OTC classification under Health Canada.
Frequently asked questions
Is Dulaglutide available in Canada? ▾
Yes — Dulaglutide and its brands are available in Canada through pharmacies authorised by Health Canada, in various strengths depending on the commercial product. Authorised generics offer a lower-cost alternative with the same active substance.
Do I need a prescription for Dulaglutide in Canada? ▾
Canada classifies medications as Schedule I (prescription), II (pharmacist-only OTC), III (open OTC) or unscheduled, with provincial variation. Provincial drug plans cover prescription costs at varying rates. The exact status of Dulaglutide (Rx or OTC) is determined by Health Canada; most active ingredients in the GLP-1 receptor agonist class require prescription, although there are exceptions by country and formulation.
How much does Dulaglutide cost in Canada? ▾
The price in CAD depends on the manufacturer (brand vs authorised generic), the strength and the pack size. Generics are typically substantially cheaper than brands and serve as the economic reference for ongoing use.
Products with Dulaglutide in Canada
Dulaglutide in other countries
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.