From the editor:

Seniors from the U.S. often save 50% or more purchasing prescription drugs in Canada or Mexico.  Here are some guidelines from U.S. Customs, the Canadian government, Mexico's Health Ministry and Association of Tijuana Pharmacies:
U.S. Customs:

• Declare imported medications.
• The importer must be the person for whom the prescription was written.
• Keep prescription drugs in the originally dispensed container.
• Bring the prescription, especially if the trade or chemical name does not appear on the originally dispensed container.
• Check for additional State requirements where you reenter the U.S.
• Return with quantities only for your personal use.  The FDA generally describes this as a 90-day supply.

Canada:

Canadian law requires that U.S. prescriptions have to be written by a Canadian doctor before they can be filled at a Canadian pharmacy.  This is a one-time requirement.  Some pharmacies will arrange for your appointment with a doctor and will deduct the cost of the visit from your first prescription.

Mexico:

Mexican law also requires a prescription from a Mexican physician in addition to your U.S. prescription.  This is generally done at the time when you get your prescription filled.  The pharmacist is required to keep the original prescription but make sure you don't leave the store without a copy.  You will need it when going through Customs.

Tom Grant, News Editor for The Local Planet in Spokane, Washington also shares these tips:  "Get a current prescription and a letter from your U.S. doctor.  The letter should note that your doctor is aware and supportive of your purchasing medications in Canada.  Doctors and pharmacists in Canada want to see that you have been stabilized on your medication and that dosage levels or medication types are not likely to change in the short term.  They also want to know that your U.S. doctor is keeping track of your drug usage to guard against drug interactions.
 
The U.S. Customs agents and Food and Drug Administration agents want to see that your U.S. doctor is actually prescribing the drugs in the quantities and dosages that are being brought back across the border.  Your prescription and letter serve that purpose.

You then need to make an appointment with a Canadian doctor to get a new prescription. A visit will generally cost less than $50 Canadian (roughly $35 US).  The letter and prescription from your U.S. doctor should be sent by mail or fax to the Canadian doctor and pharmacist at least one week ahead of your appointment.  That allows them to check with your U.S. doctor if they have any concerns."

For more details click this website www.tomgrant.org/RX_Canada_FAQ.htm

October 2001