A new national drug initiative will result in $6 million in savings in the first year for the Saskatchewan Drug Plan.
Through the pan-Canadian Pharmaceutical Alliance, Saskatchewan along with other provinces have developed a new initiative with the Canadian Generic Pharmaceutical Association to reduce the prices of commonly prescribed drugs.
Health Minister Jim Reiter said the savings will benefit the public, as well as the drug plan to increase its sustainability and provide coverage for new drugs.
As of April 1, 2018 the prices of around 70 generic drugs will be reduced by 25 to 40 per cent. The drugs included in the initiative are used for a variety of conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and depression.
The initiative will also see a commitment from drug manufacturers to continue to bring a stable supply of generic drugs to Canada.