Drug Identification Number (DIN) Application for OTC Drugs

From product classification to final DIN approval, we manage the full process so you can stay focused on your business.

Your path to getting DIN approval in Canada

To sell an OTC drug in Canada, the first step is building a solid regulatory foundation. That includes securing a Drug Identification Number (DIN), issued by Health Canada, to confirm that your product is authorized for sale. 

From there, we help you move through the DIN application process with clarity and structure. Whether it’s product classification, submission strategy, or packaging compliance, our team ensures every part of your OTC drug compliance is aligned with Health Canada requirements. 

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Why OTC products need a DIN

Every over-the-counter drug in Canada must have a Drug Identification Number (DIN). This number links your product to its approved ingredients, purpose, and quality standards, helping Health Canada monitor product safety and streamline recalls if needed. 

Here’s why a DIN matters:
Market access

A DIN is legally required to sell OTC drugs in Canada.

Safety verification

It confirms your product has been evaluated for quality and efficacy.

Traceability

DINs allow Health Canada to track issues, recalls, or adverse reactions.

Consumer trust

Shoppers can verify your product through the public DIN lookup tool.

Our DIN application services

We simplify the DIN application process by handling each step with care. This helps keep your product on track and aligned with Health Canada’s expectations from the beginning. 

We assess whether your product qualifies as an OTC drug and help choose the correct regulatory pathway (e.g., DIN vs. NPN). 

If your product matches a Health Canada OTC drug monograph (like those for sunscreens, antifungals, or antacids), your DIN application may be faster. We confirm alignment or guide you through a non-monograph submission if needed. 

Our team reviews your medicinal and non-medicinal ingredients to ensure they meet acceptable concentrations, combinations, and uses under Canadian regulations. 

We compile all documents needed for a compliant DIN submission, including product information, dosage form, packaging specs, and evidence of safety and effectiveness. 

We verify your label includes all required elements, such as risk statements, directions, and bilingual text, before your product hits the shelves. 

We act as your liaison with Health Canada, responding to information requests and tracking application status until your DIN is issued.  

Why work with us?

18+ years in regulatory compliance
In-house team of regulatory and label experts
Experience across pain relief, cold & flu, dermatology, and more
Fast-track solutions for monograph-based submissions

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Any over-the-counter drug sold in Canada, such as cough syrups, antacids, or medicated creams, must have a DIN issued by Health Canada.

If your product treats or prevents a condition and includes medicinal ingredients, it may qualify as an OTC drug and require a DIN. We can help assess the correct classification.

Both are Drug Identification Numbers issued by Health Canada. A DIN is for conventional OTC drugs, while a DIN-HM is specifically for homeopathic medicines. We support both types of applications and can help you determine which one applies to your product.

Selling an NHP in Canada without an NPN is illegal and can result in penalties or product removal. We ensure your product is fully compliant to avoid regulatory issues. 

Each Drug Identification Number (DIN) issued by Health Canada includes: 

  • Product brand name 
  • Active ingredient(s) 
  • Strength of the active ingredient(s) 
  • Dosage form (e.g., tablet, liquid, cream) 
  • Route of administration (e.g., oral, topical) 
  • Name of the manufacturer (the company responsible for the product) 

No. Selling an OTC drug in Canada without a DIN is not allowed. Health Canada uses the DIN system to track approved products and enforce compliance. Products sold without proper authorization can be recalled, delisted, or lead to penalties for the company.

Yes. We regularly support U.S. and international companies looking to enter the Canadian market. Our team offers complete DIN application support, including Importer of Record services through our in-house regulatory division, Quality Import Solutions.

Yes. We assist with post-market changes like reformulations, label revisions, and Health Canada notifications. 

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