Reference Drug Program
Last updated on July 8, 2026This page has information about BC PharmaCare's Reference Drug Program.
On this page
What to know
PharmaCare's Reference Drug Program (RDP) encourages prescribers to prescribe less costly, equally effective drugs that PharmaCare fully covers.
The RDP groups drugs in the same drug family that treat the same medical conditions. The drugs are equally safe and effective. Each group has one or more “reference” drugs. The rest are “non-reference”.
- Fully covered: the reference drugs in a group
- Partially covered: the non-reference drugs in a group
The cost of the reference drug determines how much is covered of a non-reference drug. For example, if the reference drug is $5/dose, and the non-reference drug is $8/dose, then PharmaCare covers $5 of the non-reference drug.
Pharmacists can adapt drugs within RDP categories to help you get the best coverage.
If you cannot take a reference drug for a medical reason, your prescriber can submit a Special Authority request for full coverage of a non-reference drug. Patients are expected to try reference drugs first or have a medical reason for taking a non-reference drug. Talk to your prescriber or pharmacist if you would prefer a non-reference product.
Actual coverage depends on the rules of your PharmaCare plan. Full coverage under the Fair PharmaCare plan is subject to deductible requirements. All other PharmaCare plans pay 100% of the cost of a full benefit.
Note: The maximum amount that PharmaCare reimburses for partially covered RDP drugs changes regularly.
RDP drug groups
- Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) — for high blood pressure and heart disease
- Dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers (CCBs) — for high blood pressure and heart disease
- Histamine 2 receptor blockers (H2 blockers) — for significant stomach acid issues, such as acid reflux or ulcers
- Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) — for high blood pressure and heart disease
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) — for significant stomach acid issues, such as acid reflux or ulcers
- HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) — for high cholesterol.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) — for inflammation and pain
View the full list of RDP drugs.
The RDP has delivered safe, effective drug treatment at more affordable prices since 1995. Studies show it is safe for the vast majority of patients to switch to the less costly drugs in the categories. Savings from the RDP program help PharmaCare cover new drug treatments for people in B.C.
