Drug importation and safety of drugs obtained from Canada.

Drug importation from Canada has been hotly debated for nearly a decade. Many believe that drug importation will bring needed competition and lower US drug prices. Opposition argues that the costs of ensuring product quality and safety, as well as added healthcare costs, will offset savings attained from imported pharmaceuticals. The US needs to become innovative and seek solutions that will provide effective, safe, and economical pharmaceuticals without placing a burden on other countries and without damaging the pharmaceutical research.