FDA approves first state request to import drugs from Canada | CNN Politics
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The Food and Drug Administration has approved Florida’s request to import certain drugs from Canada, marking the first time a state has been authorized to buy lower-cost medications in bulk from abroad.

The Food and Drug Administration has approved Florida’s request to import certain drugs from Canada, marking the first time a state has been authorized to buy lower-cost medications in bulk from abroad.

The historic move is the latest salvo in the long-running battle to lower drug prices, one of Americans’ biggest health care headaches and a major element of President Joe Biden’s reelection campaign. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who is seeking the Republican presidential nomination, is also highlighting his importation proposal as he seeks to curtail drug costs.

While US law allows drug importation, it never gained traction because of federal health officials’ concerns over safety and actual savings as well as fierce opposition from American drug manufacturers and Republican lawmakers.

  • girlfreddy@lemmy.ca
    71·
    11 months ago

    If the feds would fix this hypocrisy instead you wouldn’t have to import any drugs from outside the US.

    The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, known as PhRMA, quickly issued a statement that said it is “considering all options for preventing this policy from harming patients.”

    “We are deeply concerned with the FDA’s reckless decision to approve Florida’s state importation plan,” said Stephen Ubl, CEO of PhRMA, the main industry group. “Ensuring patients have access to needed medicines is critical, but the importation of unapproved medicines, whether from Canada or elsewhere in the world, poses a serious danger to public health. Politicians need to stop getting between Americans and their health care.”

    • Blackout@kbin.social
      41·
      11 months ago

      Lol what kind of shit are they feeding the Canadians? It’s must be really bad if the drug companies are so worried about Americans getting them. I can’t think of any other reason.