FDA permits Florida to import drugs from Canada

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) yesterday approved Florida's request to import prescription drugs from Canada at considerably lower prices, becoming the first state to get permission from the agency.

The State expects to save up to $180 million in the first year, addressing critical healthcare concerns for Americans and targeting chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, HIV/AIDS and mental illness for beneficiaries of state agencies.

It is aimed at reducing healthcare costs and is seen as a model for other states grappling with rising drug prices.

Other states eye similar approvals
Nine states can legally import drugs after the FDA’s approval, and according to the New York Times, Colorado has already applied for approvals.

Hurdles
However, the approval is accompanied by stringent safeguards requiring thorough FDA-verified safety checks. The agency will also watch Florida to see that it adheres to the safety rules, reports side effects and shows significant cost savings.

But, states must prove that importing will reduce consumer prices for their Medicaid programs, government clinics and prisons.
The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America plans to file a lawsuit against the FDA’s “reckless” decision.