Prescription drugs

UBC researchers identify the most dangerous prescriptions for B.C. drivers

It’s well-known that drinking and driving is linked to a high risk of causing a car crash. But taking common prescription medications like sleeping pills, opioids and medication used to treat anxiety and depression also poses a risk.

Apr 22, 2021

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Drug discount cards could actually cost patients more

New research published today in the Canadian Medical Association Journal (CMAJ) reveals that brand-name drug discount cards are leading to higher health care spending in Canada—increased costs that are ultimately passed on to patients.

Nov 12, 2019

Canadians giving up food, heat to pay for prescription drugs: UBC study

Canadians giving up food, heat to pay for prescription drugs: UBC study

More than 900,000 Canadians reduced their spending on basic necessities like food and heat to pay for prescription drugs in 2016, according to new research by a team from the University of British Columbia, Simon Fraser University, McMaster University, and The University of Toronto.

Feb 13, 2018

Canada spends over $400 million on medicine that harms seniors

Canada spends over $400 million on medicine that harms seniors

Canada spends more than $400 million annually on drugs prescribed to seniors even though the medicines should be avoided for older patients, according to new UBC research.

Jun 22, 2016

Canadian Rx atlas maps billions in savings – for now

Canadian Rx atlas maps billions in savings – for now

Canadians are spending less on prescription drugs, according to the latest edition of the Canadian Rx Atlas, but UBC health economists predict the break will be short-lived.

Dec 12, 2013

Coffee and other stimulant drugs may cause high achievers to slack off: UBC study

While stimulants may improve unengaged workers’ performance, a new University of British Columbia study suggests that for others, caffeine and amphetamines can have the opposite effect, causing workers with higher motivation levels to slack off.

Mar 28, 2012

Majority of B.C. women take prescription drugs during pregnancy: UBC study

Almost two-thirds of women in British Columbia filled at least one prescription at some point in their pregnancy, including drugs with potential risks, according to a new study by University of British Columbia researchers.

Dec 15, 2011

Little progress on reducing pharmacare coverage disparities over past decade: UBC research

Changes to provincial drug plans over the past decade did little to address the wide disparities among provinces in prescription drug coverage, according to an analysis by University of British Columbia researchers.

Oct 5, 2011