Today, the Honourable Marjorie Michel, Minister of Health, announced permanent controls as of December 19, 2025, for carisoprodol, a sedative drug that has been found in illegal drug markets around the world.
Carisoprodol is used in some countries as a muscle relaxant and it has sedative effects similar to benzodiazepines. It is not authorized for sale in Canada. In light of evidence of its misuse and diversion in other countries, these new regulations will ensure that law and border enforcement continue to have the tools they need to stop its illegal importation, distribution and use. Anyone found conducting unauthorized activities with the drug could face criminal penalties under the Controlled Drug and Substances Act.
Temporary controls for carisoprodol were put in place in February 27, 2025, under a Ministerial Order for a one-year emergency basis. Since this Ministerial Order, border enforcement has successfully been able to intercept and prevent illegal shipments of carisoprodol from entering Canada.
This work is part of Canada's Border Plan, which aims to strengthen border security, including detecting and disrupting the illegal drug trade.
