The American Association For Retired Personnel has been constantly reporting the steep rise in the prices of prescription drugs in the US. While inflation was less than 3% in 2010, average drug prices increased by more than 11%. If you consider the price rise over a five-year period, it has been between 100 and 1000 percent for all American manufactured drugs. It is in this scenario that Canadian drugs seem to be the best alternative. However, like everything, it has got its pros and cons, which one should be aware of.
Canadian Drugs Are Cheaper
Drugs in Canada are subject to price regulation. Not only is the government the single buyer, creating a monopsony, and, therefore, increasing the bargaining power for the buyer, the price controls prohibit drug prices from going higher than the inflation level. Sellers of patented drugs can reap the rewards of their RD, but not by ripping customers off their money. The favorable exchange rate of the Canadian dollar gives the average American more purchasing power, amplifying the discounts even further.
Canadian Drugs Are Convenient
Buying Canadian drugs online is more convenient than going to a neighborhood pharmacy and making the purchase. You can order anytime and from anywhere. The online system takes down the order and ensures that the drugs are shipped to you in the stipulated period. Also, you have access to a qualified pharmacist to ensure that your queries do not go unanswered.
Canadian Drugs Are Equally Safe
There is nothing to choose with regards to safety between American and Canadian drugs. Often these drugs are manufactured by the same manufacturer and sold under the same brand names in both the countries. Also, rating agencies ensure that any drugs supplied to customers in the US must meet the quality standards of both Canada and the US. Hence, you can rest assured about the safety.
The Shipping Time For Canadian Drugs Is Longer
The shipping duration of Canadian drugs is longer. Drugs reach you within seven to ten business days after you have placed the order. Hence, you need to ensure that you do not need the drugs very urgently. Timely order placement is required for purchasing these drugs online. You could purchase a limited quantity from your local pharmacy to ensure uninterrupted supply. However, to counter this, Canadian pharmacies have started reminder services, wherein you receive a reminder to order the drugs that you use regularly. This way you do not have to make an extra trip to the local pharmacy. The software at the pharmacy keeps track of your needs.
Buying Canadian Drugs Takes Research
There have been issues of large scale duplication and internet fraud while buying Canada drugs. This has left the common man in a fix. Although rating agencies ensure that a common man can verify the authenticity of a supplier, there is still a considerable amount of research involved. This is viewed by many as a deterrent and adds to the negatives of buying from online Canadian suppliers.