Foreign Pharmacy

Prescription medications are expensive. Fortunately, most of the population has health insurance or a prescription drug plan to help cover the cost of prescription drugs. Nonetheless, it is estimated that millions of people are living without health insurance. Moreover, many with health insurance have discovered that their insurance company refuses to pay for certain necessary drugs. This forces many to purchase their medication from discounted online or foreign pharmacies.

What is a Foreign Pharmacy?

Foreign Pharmacies are essentially drug companies that operate outside the borders of the United States. These pharmacies are located in Canada, Australia, Mexico, and so forth. These pharmacies offer a variety of medications for many conditions. The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) approves some medications sold by foreign pharmacies. However, the FDA does not approve a large number of foreign drugs.

Are Foreign Pharmacies Safe?

Anytime a person chooses to buy prescription medications from a place other than a local pharmacy (ex. online or foreign pharmacy), discretion must be used. Some pharmacies do not require patients to obtain a prescription medication or have a consultation. Additionally, many foreign pharmacies advertise medications that are not FDA approved. This is dangerous because unapproved medications may cause severe or life-threatening reactions. Sadly, there have been incidents in which foreign pharmacies have sent customers medications that were incorrect, outdated, and counterfeit.

Are Foreign Pharmacies Illegal?

Foreign pharmacies are illegal only in cases where unapproved medications are imported into the United States. Individuals seeking alternative medicines may request medications that have been proven effective in another country. However, medications that have not been tested by FDA scientists are not permitted because they are not proven safe or effective within this country. Foreign drugs may result in adverse side effects or cause long-term complications. However, the FDA does a discretionary law that may permit a US resident to obtain an unapproved foreign drug when it becomes necessary for their survival.