US patients face tighter rules on importing cheap Canadian prescription drugs

More than two million U.S. consumers have turned to foreign pharmacies for lower-priced prescriptions, a market that existed despite FDA rules that formally prohibit most personal imports. In August, customs fees were introduced on a subset of overseas parcels, and from early October onward, every mailed medication will undergo standard customs clearance, requiring a licensed customs representative and a financial guarantee.

The government says the move is intended to tighten control over cheap imports and block illicit goods. Critics warn that many patients could lose access to affordable drugs such as Xifaxan and Eliquis, prompting some to consider dose reductions or stopping treatment. Canadian pharmacies like Northwest Pharmacy have already warned that orders placed after the cutoff may not be fulfilled. The new regime will also apply to shipments from India, the United Kingdom, Australia and Turkey, while travelers bringing medicines back themselves are exempt.