Health Canada

Stories

Bridge to Life's liver perfusion system reaches Canada as FDA fast-tracks intestinal use

Issued a Medical Device License for VitaSmart in donor livers

A donated liver starts dying the moment it stops receiving blood. On November 3, Health Canada licensed Bridge to Life's VitaSmart system, a machine that pumps cold, oxygenated fluid through a donor liver before transplant, making it available to Canadian transplant centers. The same announcement said the U.S. Food and Drug Administration granted Breakthrough Device Designation for the system's investigational use in donor intestines.

Updated 5 days ago

Colorado wins FDA approval to import prescription drugs from Canada

Rule Changes

As of June 2026: Blocking exports that could worsen Canadian shortages

On June 15, 2026, the FDA approved Colorado's plan to import about 20 prescription medicines from Canada. The state estimates residents will save 20% to 70% on those drugs, totaling roughly $46 million over three years.

Updated Jun 16