The skyrocketing price of medicines continue to be a problem around the world. In fact, it is a problem even in highly developed countries. Thus, the reason why policymakers are doing the best they can to pursue a wide array of options to significantly lower the prices of medicines. One of the best ways to achieve this is to import drugs. The drug importing company (บริษัทนำเข้ายา, term in Thai) is the one responsible for importing medicines from various parts of the world. Let us dig deeper to know more about the current status of importing drugs.
Is drug importation allowed?
The importation of drug is allowed but there are rules and policies that should be followed. One of the must-followed rules is to make sure that the importation of drugs does not poses threat to the people’s health and safety. Of course, the importation must lead to a significantly lower cost of medicines.
How importation of drugs can lead to a lower cost of medicine?
Is it possible for you to save money from importing drugs? Well, this is a case to case basis and would heavily rely on the kind of drugs as well as the supply and demand. In many countries, people pay more for drugs, especially prescription medicines. Most of the prescription drugs are priced way lower primarily because they are the primary manufacturer of the drug. More so, the price is made even more affordable if you purchase in bulk. Hence, making drug importation all the more practical decision.
Although drug importation is beneficial, one should keep in mind that it cannot be done by just anyone. It is a highly regulated industry and a particular company must have all the necessary papers and permit to import drugs. There is a rigorous screening process. There is also a thorough review on the price of drugs to make sure that the drugs are not priced excessively. If the cost of the drugs is on the expensive side, a patentee can be ordered to significantly lower the price of drug.
The Food and Drug Administration is rigorous in protecting public health. It makes sure that every imported medicine comply with the regulatory legal requirements. Every imported drug must meet FDA’s standards for effectiveness, safety, and quality. The shipment of imported drugs is thoroughly reviewed making sure that it is not adulterated. An adulterated drug is the one that is manufactured not following the quality requirements.
The drug is also checked for misbranding. The label is checked to ensure that it complies with the regulations set by FDA. An example of misbranded drug is when the product information is misleading or has claims. Lastly, the imported drug is checked for approval of safety and effectiveness. The companies can only sell the drugs if and when proven efficacy and safety. If the drug is lacking FDA approval, then importing it is automatically unapproved. The rigorous and strict requirements only show that drug importation is something that only done by legitimate companies.
