Missouri joining Internet drug importation program

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- Missouri will join Illinois and Wisconsin in a new Internet program that helps residents buy cheaper prescription drugs from Canada and Europe.

Gov. Bob Holden traveled Thursday to Chicago to announce Missouri's participation in the I-SaveRx drug importation program, which was spearheaded by Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich.

"As governors, we're all concerned about the high cost of prescription drugs, especially as it affects those on limited income," Holden said. "It seemed to me the logical next step for Missouri to provide options for safe and affordable prescription drugs for all our citizens."

The program, launched earlier this month, works through a Canadian clearinghouse to connect residents to 45 foreign pharmacies and wholesalers approved by Illinois health inspectors. It claims to save residents up to 50 percent off U.S. retail prices on about 100 prescription medications.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration opposes the reimporting of prescription drugs, saying it can't guarantee the safety of drugs sold through foreign pharmacies. But the FDA hasn't stopped states from setting up Internet sites to help consumers buy drugs through Canadian pharmacies.

Blagojevich had sent letters to the nation's other governors inviting them to join in the program. Holden had said earlier this month that he was strongly considering the invitation.

On Thursday, Holden said he felt assured the I-SaveRx program has built-in safety measures.

Prescriptions drugs are often cheaper in Canada and other countries because of government price controls. Several other states also operate Web sites linking people to drugs from Canada. But the I-SaveRx program goes further by including pharmacies in Ireland and the United Kingdom.

Missouri already has numerous private businesses that link customers to Canadian pharmacies. Holden has said a state-sponsored program could help ensure consumers are protected.