GlaxoSmithKline yesterday asked Canadian pharmacies and wholesalers to "self-certify" that they don't resell Glaxo products to consumers outside of Canada, the Wall Street Journal reports. The move is part of the drug maker's ongoing effort to curb online and mail order prescription drug sales, which company officials say could compromise patient safety. The drug maker will no longer supply its drugs to firms that do not self-certify.
In a letter sent to Canadian pharmacies and wholesalers earlier this month, Glaxo said it would stop supplying pharmacies and wholesalers that export its drugs, beginning Jan. 21 (Baglole, 1/22). But the drug maker rescinded the letter on Monday, while it continued to review the policy (Sanders, Winnipeg Free Press, 1/21).
Although Glaxo wouldn't say how many Canadian pharmacies and wholesalers would be affected by the move, company officials said the plan would take effect immediately. Glaxo will likely send a letter to selected organizations explaining the self-certification procedure, Glaxo spokeswoman Patty Seif said. The company had not yet set a compliance deadline for the plan, Seif said.
Company officials maintain that the effort is intended to prevent consumers from purchasing drugs online; Glaxo representatives say the drugs could be damaged during shipping. But Canadian government officials and pharmacy representatives say Glaxo is trying to preserve its lucrative U.S. market.
"Even if Glaxo cuts off the Canadian supply, Americans will find cheaper drugs in Australia or Ireland," said MaryAnn Mihychuk, Manitoba's industry minister. "I doubt Glaxo can shut down the entire Internet" (Wall Street Journal, 1/22).