Patient coalition welcomes drug safety measures; progressive, flexible approach benefits patients

The Canadian government has recently introduced a Bill (C-51), which proposes to strengthen existing health regulations in order to better regulate natural health products and improve patient safety.  The following statement of support from Canada’s Best Medicines Coaltion is one of many from patient groups around the country:
New legislation will enable Health Canada to implement more effective [...]

A Triumph of Astroturf? Regulation of the Canadian natural health products industry.

The use of natural health products such as multi-vitamins, herbs, etc. has increased dramatically in Canada – and many other developed countries – over the past decade.  While some of these products may provide health benefits, the majority of health claims are made with little or no basis in science.
Regardless of whether you believe the [...]

Fighting neglected tropical diseases should be a priority for the G-8

As leaders of the G-8 met last week in Japan, the worldwide pharmaceutical industry joined the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi) in calling on the G-8 to recognize the importance of neglected diseases as a global health threat and a major strain on the economic viability and educational [...]

Consumers in Canada spend the same percentage of their income on prescription drugs as in the United States

Despite the significant differences between the Canadian and American healthcare systems, consumers in both countries spend the same percentage of their income on prescription drugs. 
Government policies surrounding the pricing and reimbursement of prescription drugs in Canada do not produce lower costs for Canadians compared to Americans.  Despite major differences between the Canadian and American healthcare systems, [...]