Unfortunately, drug importation is being considered for inclusion in the Food and Drug Administration Safety and Landmark Advancements (FDASLA) Act. While the Center for Innovation and Free Enterprise supports swift passage of the FDASLA Act in both Chambers, we adamantly oppose the dangerous proposal to include the importation of prescription drugs as part of this package. Doing so, would cause an influx of counterfeit drugs and do nothing to lower prices.
Although CIFE understands that prescription drug prices are a serious concern for Americans, there is no information stating that allowing the importation of foreign drugs would save consumers money. There are however, numerous studies that prove the dangers this would create for the American citizens. Furthermore, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has stated for years that importation is likely to provide access to counterfeit drugs that would be ineffective, or worse, deadly.
The government should not have this involvement in the pharmaceutical market. Both Congress and the Administration should instead focus on free market solutions which incentivize competition and promote safe access. Continuing to advocate for and implement drug importation policies will threaten American lives. CIFE feels that any inclusion of drug importation in this package is the wrong ‘solution’ to lowering drug prices and will result in a dangerous and ineffective healthcare system.