It’s no surprise that people across the country are stocking up on supplies following the coronavirus outbreak. While the government has encouraged people to be prepared, pharmacists across the country are warning that Canadians should not hoard medications.

In a press release by the Canadian Pharmacist Association (CPA), the group said, “People who require medication on a regular basis should ensure their prescriptions are up to date. We do not recommend, however, stockpiling medications in large quantities. This is completely unnecessary and could trigger drug shortages.”

ICYMI: We encourage Cdns to have common non-Rx cold, fever & allergy meds on hand. People who require meds on regular basis should also ensure prescriptions are up to date. We don't recommend stockpiling meds in large quantities: https://t.co/vQQhSOJanc #COVID19 #drugshortages pic.twitter.com/xdVPQTI0QV

— CPhA/APhC (@CPhAAPhC) March 5, 2020

The group emphasized that stockpiling prescription drugs can cause drug shortages which may put people's health at risk.

Although Canada hasn’t experienced any drug shortages yet, a spokesperson for the group told CTV News there’s a high likelihood there will be drug shortages related to COVID-19.

While pharmacists are hoping that people adopt a "take what you need and leave the rest" approach for prescription drugs, they are recommending that Canadians have non-prescription drugs that can treat fevers, allergies and colds on hand.