Alberta pharmacies are facing a surge in prescription forgeries, with reports increasing significantly in recent years. The Alberta College of Pharmacy has alerted its members that forgery attempts are on the rise, urging pharmacists to report incidents to law enforcement. In 2024, 188 forgery attempts were recorded, followed by 149 in 2025, and 132 reported in just the first half of 2026. Pharmacists like Wessam Sakr from Edgemont Family Pharmacy in Calgary highlight the sophistication of these forgeries, often involving stolen prescription pads. The Calgary Police Service has noted a 25 percent increase in reported cases of prescription fraud this year compared to the previous year, with some prescriptions successfully dispensed. The Edmonton Police Service has also reported a spike in incidents, emphasizing the importance of timely reporting to identify trends.
Why It Matters
The increase in prescription forgeries in Alberta raises significant concerns for public health and safety, as these fraudulent prescriptions often target controlled substances like opioids. Historical data indicates that the issue has fluctuated over the years, with a peak of 343 reports in 2019. The Alberta College of Pharmacy and local police are collaborating to address these challenges, as timely reporting by pharmacists is essential for effective law enforcement responses. The ongoing sophistication of forgery tactics suggests a potential link to organized crime, further complicating the issue and necessitating increased vigilance within the pharmacy community.
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