Crossing Borders
Drugs bought from Canada can save your money but may also risk your life. Here's how to save both
www.discovernd.com/prescription-drug.html
RHODE ISLAND
Passed law allowing Canadian pharmacies to seek state licenses for direct sales.
Law to take effect in 2005
VERMONT
Proposed contract with Canadian company to import drugs for state employees.
Proposal rejected by FDA; state now suing agency
WISCONSIN
Website links patients to three Canadian pharmacies, inspected by state officials, that refill prescriptions.
www.drugsavings.wi.gov
Stephen Rountree--USN&WR
Values abroad
Prescription prices are lower in Canada and the United Kingdom than in the United States, though doubts remain about the safety of imported drugs.
DRUG USED FOR U.S. CANADA U.K.
Aciphex Heartburn $422 $172 $178
Plavix Blood thinner 397 213 257
Lipitor Cholesterol 214 162 158
Celebrex Pain/arthritis 271 149 188
Zocor Cholesterol 423 231 263
Norvasc Blood pressure 166 145 134
Protonix Heartburn 381 202 206
Vioxx Pain/arthritis 322 138 221
Neurontin Seizure/pain 275 202 238
Celexa Depression 281 138 160
U.S. prices for a three-month supply from a retail pharmacy versus overseas prices, including shipping costs. Source: State of Illinois
With Susan Brink
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