Psychology

It is illegal to reimport drugs to the US for purposes of drug safety and prevention from the existing laws. Reimportation of drugs in the US is increasing at an alarming rate. This is due to its convenience in terms of cost, affordability and ready available market. An estimated 20 million packages of prescription drugs find its way into the United States each year. Internet companys particularly online pharmacies have facilitated the trade by delivering orders directly to the customers. This provides convenience to consumers in that it relieves them the cost and time that should have been used in the search for these drugs. (Vivian 2003) argues that certified pharmacies in Canada sell brand name drugs at a lower cost of between 20-80 of the price sold in the US. Another survey carried by the Associated Press revealed that the top 10 branded drugs in the US can bought at a cheaper cost of between 33-80 across the borders. The reason for reduced prices of drugs in Canada and Mexico is due to the price control system which lowers the profit levels of pharmaceutical companies. They forced increase their profit margins by looking for overseas markets which are readily available in the United States. The Canadian government has a nationalized health insurance and they negotiate with drug companies in lowering prices hence the cheap cost of drugs. This is contrary in the US since the government doesnt control prices but it allows open competition among the companies. In the event extra costs incurred in the promotion, adverting campaigns as well as research is passed on to consumers. In 2006, CNNMONEY writer, Gerry Willis, quoted a rate of 30-40 variation rate by comparing the prices of Lipitor and crestor in Canada and US pharmacies.

Senior individuals especially the elderly lack insurance cover and they may no be in a position to afford prescribed drugs and they resort to cross the border. They account for 34 of the most vulnerable people to prescription drugs. They are also more prone with ailments which require prescription drugs ( Safran et al 2002). They tend to need more prescription drugs to cure chronic conditions like hypertension, arthritis among others. 

Majority of prescription drugs find their way to the US market through online supply orders. Patients usually complete online questionnaires that are subject to review before prescription.  Cost is the major reason as to why individuals import drugs. Usually consumers pay a higher price for their medications in the US than what those in Canada pay. Also issues of privacy contribute to purchasing drugs by mail i.e. individuals purchasing Viagra and Cialis might feel at peace purchasing it from a known individual. Increased economies of health also forces individuals terminate their ever increasing cost of health insurance premiums and look for alternative ways abroad. 

In my own opinion, ethical dilemma 2 undermines the protection laws since it is misused by politicians and individuals with commercial interests. The  FDA law that allows individuals to import a certain amount of prescription drugs for personal use has led to the uncontrolled increase in the volume of drugs supplied. It makes it difficult for custom officials and FDA to regulate. Also influence from politicians who aid individuals mostly the elderly to purchase these drugs from Canada hinders regulation principles. It also poses a major health risk and the safety of citizens if these drugs dont follow the right channels. This might come as a result of entry of generic and ineffective medications.