Controlled Medications and Refills: What to Know
Why controlled substances can't be refilled through My Pharmacist NB, and the right way to renew them in New Brunswick.
Quick answer
My Pharmacist NB does not refill controlled substances such as opioids, stimulants, and certain sedatives. These require your regular prescriber and, often, an in-person assessment. Here's why, and what to do instead.
Why these are different
Controlled medications are governed by strict rules designed to keep patients safe. Renewing them usually requires an established prescriber relationship, careful monitoring, and sometimes an in-person check. A routine refill through your pharmacist and a nurse practitioner video visit can't provide that, so My Pharmacist NB does not handle them.
What to do instead
Renew controlled medications through the provider who prescribes them: your family doctor, nurse practitioner, or a clinic. If you're between primary care providers, your pharmacist can advise on short-term options and local resources while you arrange follow-up.
Start at your pharmacy
See your pharmacist today to book an appointment. Nurse practitioner visits are a flat $79, at select participating pharmacies across New Brunswick.
How it worksFrequently asked questions
No. Controlled substances, such as opioids, stimulants, and certain sedatives, cannot be refilled through My Pharmacist NB under any circumstances. This is a firm safety and regulatory boundary, not a case-by-case decision that a pharmacist or nurse practitioner can waive.
These medications carry stricter monitoring and legal requirements that a routine renewal isn't designed to meet. Your regular prescriber is the right and safest route for them.
Keep reading
Which Prescriptions Can (and Can't) Be Refilled Through My Pharmacist NB
Many everyday maintenance medications can be renewed through My Pharmacist NB. Medications that need lab monitoring, a physical exam, or that are controlled substances generally can't be. When in doubt, ask your pharmacist; they triage every request.
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How Prescription Refills Work with My Pharmacist NB
A My Pharmacist NB refill starts with your pharmacist. They triage you, renew what is within their own scope, and, when a nurse practitioner is needed, book a video visit for you on the spot. The prescription goes straight to your pharmacy. A nurse practitioner visit is a flat $79.
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