generic drugs

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The government of Manitoba has embarked on an ill-advised industrial policy that will not only put Canadians’ health at risk without improving employment or economic growth in the province, but also violates the principles of free trade as well.

The policy in question is the government’s encouragement of Internet-based, mail-order pharmacies that send lower-priced Canadian prescription drugs to American patients in violation of U.S. law.


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Worried about rising expenditures for prescription drugs, many states are employing preferred lists to encourage doctors to prescribe older, lower-priced drugs and forego the latest, more expensive medicines.

If Congress succeeds in passing a Medicare prescription drug benefit this year, the debate over preferred drug lists - now raging in numerous states - is likely to explode onto the national stage.

The lists - also known as formularies - are, whether we like it or not, a form of rationing. Ask any Canadian.