Drug imports are no remedy
Late this spring, Congress came close to legalizing the importation of prescription drugs from abroad. Although the legislation failed, lawmakers are expected to consider a similar measure soon.
Despite the assertions of some pro-importation lawmakers who say that the only things endangered by drug importation are the large profits of the drug companies that overprice their medicines in our market, such a bill would actually expose Americans to grave health risks.
As the Food and Drug Administration has declared time and again, it simply can't guarantee the safety of imported drugs. Indeed, the agency doesn't even have the ability to thoroughly vet drug imports at their current levels.
By Joel White
02 August 2007