Medication safety and management

Medication safety and management

Last updated

Learn about how to manage your medications, including information on coverage, disposal and safety.

Coverage and formulary information

Find tools to help navigate public medication coverage in B.C.  

BC PharmaCare

People who live in B.C. can get help from BC PharmaCare to pay for medications and medical supplies. You can also read about strategies to help reduce medication costs.

Formulary search

Use the BC PharmaCare Formulary Search to find a detailed list of medications covered by BC PharmaCare, including dosage, generic options, restrictions and special authority requirements. 

PedMed provides information on pediatric and neonatal drug dosages, safety information and practice recommendations based on the latest guidelines.

Special Authority

Some medications require special authorization for coverage, that would otherwise not be covered or only partially covered. Coverage is provided to patients in specific medication circumstances. 

Clinical practice guidelines

BC Guidelines are evidence-based clinical practice guidelines and treatment protocols for various conditions. The primary audience for BC Guidelines is BC physicians, nurse practitioners and medical students


Disposal and return programs

Through the Medications Return Program, you can return (at no charge) unused or expired medications to participating pharmacies in B.C. Find a collection location near you and learn how to safely return medications or medical sharps

Read more about safe disposal of prescription drugs from Health Canada.


Medication safety

Useful resources

A secure portal where BC residents can access their digital health records, including their prescription history.

Pharmacists can renew medications, assess and treat minor ailments, and prescribe contraceptives.