Full Bill Text

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to adopt an amendment to S 3187 that authorizes individuals to import FDA-approved prescription drugs from approved Canadian pharmacies.

Highlights:

• Authorizes individuals to import prescription drugs into the United States from approved Canadian pharmacies if the pharmacies comply with the following regulations:
• The pharmacy uses a valid prescription that is issued by a practicing, licensed physician in the United States;
• THe pharmacy purchases a prescription drug that has the same active ingredient or ingredients, route of administration, dosage form, and strength as a prescription drug approved by the FDA;   
• The pharmacy purchases the prescription drug for personal use only;
• The pharmacy purchases a maximum 90-day supply of the prescription drug; and
• None of these prescription drugs may be prohibited controlled substances.

• Defines “approved Canadian pharmacy” as a pharmacy that complies with certain standards that include, but are not limited to, the following:
• The pharmacy is located and licensed to operate in Canada;
• The pharmacy has existed for 5 years prior to this bill's enactment;
• The pharmacy operates according to Canadian pharmacy standards and regulations;
• The pharmacy conducts or participates in quality assurance programs;
• The pharmacy establishes a process for resolving grievances; and
• The pharmacy does not resell products from online pharmacies located outside Canada to customers in the United States.

• Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to establish regulations that authorizes individuals to import a prescription drug from Canada.

• Requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to publish a list of approved Canadian pharmacies on the Food and Drug Administration Web site.

Full Bill Text