Health Canada is proposing that all opioid prescriptions carry a warning sticker  – and be accompanied by a patient handout – detailing the dangers of dependence, addiction and overdose.

The department says patients getting prescription opioids should know the risks so they can make informed decisions about their use.

The stickers would be applied to every opioid pill bottle – and pharmacists would hand the pamphlet out with each prescription.

If the rule is adopted – it would be the first time the federal government has required a warning sticker and patient handout be distributed with a dispensed medicine.

To finalize the regulations, Health Canada is asking people to provide their comments through the Canada Gazette website.

Consultations will be open until the end of August.