Three new synthetic opioid-related substances added to Canada's controlled substances watch list

Plain-language summary · AI-assisted · not legal advice

The amendment formally incorporates three substances into Schedule V of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act for a one-year period: two synthetic opioids — Spirobrorphine and Spirochlorphine — are added as controlled substances, and R 29676 (along with any preparation or mixture containing it) is added as a Class A precursor. These additions mean that possession, trafficking, production, or importation of these substances without authorization is now subject to the Act's enforcement and licensing rules. Businesses handling research chemicals, precursor suppliers, pharmacists, and importers should review whether any products they handle fall within the new entries and ensure appropriate permits or exemptions are in place. The amendment also updates a cross-reference in the prosecution limits section to cite a renumbered Criminal Code provision, with no substantive change to how those limits work.

Who this affects: precursor chemical suppliers and importers · pharmaceutical and research chemical companies · licensed dealers and researchers · law enforcement and prosecutors · pharmacists and compounding facilities