Canadian Drugs

Canadian drugs are commonly exported across the world. Whether they are produced in Canada or exported in, many of the drugs heavily sought after in the United States and Europe are exported out of Canada due to the price regulations imposed by Health Canada. These regulations prevent extortion of drug prices by pharmaceutical companies, which allows for more people to have access to the drugs that they need.

However, Canadian drugs have the disadvantage of being so heavily regulated. Unlike in the United States, there are many types of drugs that have not passed the vigorous guidelines imposed by Health Canada. The affected products range from over the counter medications as well as prescription drugs.

By taking a hard line stance on the regulation of Canadian drugs, Health Canada works to protect the citizens of Canada from exposure to drugs that have unwanted health effects. By heavily regulating who can take experimental classed drugs, Health Canada has prevented some instances of pharmaceutical companies releasing products to the general public that have not proven safe for use over time. However, it is this same stance that bans many from having access to the experimental drugs that might make the difference in life or death treatments of rare or hard to treat diseases and ailments.

Importing Canadian drugs may not be the solution to getting cheaper drugs within the United States. While this may apply for some individuals seeking specific drugs, the importation of these drugs into the United States is regulated. In many cases, the taxes imposed on drugs entering the United States will put those drugs on par with what you pay in the pharmacies. Instead of paying the excess amount to the pharmaceutical companies, you are paying them to the government instead.

As the regulations imposed by Health Canada are strict, there are less pharmaceutical companies located in Canada than in the United States. Canadian drugs manufactured by these companies tend to have a higher reputation of quality and control. However, this is not always the case. In some instances, such as in government regulated and produced medicinal marijuana, the quality is lower than can be obtained on the black markets.

There are some instances where you can purchase high strength Canadian drugs over the counter without prescription. The availability of these drugs is limited by province and availability. Transporting these drugs out of country can also provide some hardships. If you’re planning on exporting these drugs back for personal use, please retain the receipt, as you will require it at any border crossing where you might be questioned.