7 Things Seniors Should Know About Importing Medications from Canadian Pharmacies

Over the past few years, one of the biggest items in the news – and debates taking place in Washington and elsewhere – has been about a growing trend of Americans, and especially seniors, importing medicines from other countries, usually Canada. Well leave it to lawmakers and health industry experts to decide whether this is a good idea or not, but there are some things you should know.

1. The legalities of importing Canadian medicines are constantly changing. Various governing bodies within the U.S. and Canada are still sorting out the regulations of imported medicines. The best thing to do, if youre concerned that you might be breaking the law, is to check before you place your order. The chances of you being prosecuted for importing medicines are low, but you could risk having them seized by U.S. Customs.
2. Canadian medicines are generally cheaper. Pricing structures for most medicines are different in the United States because of the way pharmaceutical companies factor in costs for development. Many consumers feel that this is an unfair arrangement. Regardless of opinions, however, the fact is that medicines tend to be cheaper in Canada than they are in the U.S.
3. Canadian pharmacies are similar to U.S. pharmacies. Costs aside, the pharmacies in Canada are very similar to the ones in the U.S. Although they arent regulated by the USDA, Canada has its own stringent regulating bodies that oversee the production and distribution of medicines within the country.
4. Not all drugs sold in Canada are made in Canada. Be aware that many medicines found in Canadian pharmacies, and especially those sold over the Internet, may have been manufactured in other countries, and even third-world factories. The quality of your medicine is very important, so be sure you know where your prescriptions are coming from.
5. Buying prescriptions over the Internet can be risky. Counterfeit medicines, unlicensed pharmacies, and unsecure Internet transactions are risks to be considered when buying from online pharmacies. Make sure to read reviews and find out about any company youre thinking of doing business with before you provide your credit card number or place an order. Some medicines are better bought in person.
6. Shipping costs and times can be important. If you have a medicine that you take regularly, be sure that its in stock and available before you place an order. In rare cases, it can take several weeks for Americans to receive their prescriptions from Canadian pharmacies.
7. You should be careful taking any medicine from any source. It goes without saying that you should only take medicines that have been prescribed to you, and use them as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. There have been cases of people, including a few seniors, trying to abuse prescription medications ordered over the Internet. Your health is too important to take chances, so go to a medical professional with any questions you may have.