commercial protectionism Archives

Safety or Profit? The Prescription Drug Classification Dilemma

Brian RogersJune 6, 20240206 views

The classification of prescription medications varies significantly between countries, reflecting different healthcare systems and regulatory environments. In the U.S., the FDA classifies many drugs as prescription-only based on safety and abuse potential. Conversely, countries like India and Thailand allow over-the-counter access to many of these medications. This article explores the reasons behind these differences and examines whether U.S. regulations are driven by safety concerns or commercial interests, and how reclassification could potentially reduce healthcare costs and improve access.

Commercial Protectionism vs. Affordable Pharmaceuticals: Navigating the Complex Landscape of U.S. Healthcare Policy

Brian RogersJune 5, 20240155 views

In the ongoing debate between commercial protectionism and the accessibility of affordable pharmaceuticals, the United States finds itself at a critical juncture. While the FDA’s stringent regulations on imported generics from countries like India are justified by health concerns, there is a growing perception that these measures increasingly serve commercial interests. Critics argue that the influence of Big Pharma has led to policies that prioritize corporate profits over consumer welfare, resulting in higher healthcare costs for Americans. This article explores the origins of these regulatory measures, the role of pharmaceutical lobbying, and the economic impacts of protectionism, calling for reforms to balance safety with affordability and accessibility.

How Payment Processors and Shadow Regulation Prevent Americans from Accessing Affordable Generic Pharmaceuticals from India

Brian RogersMay 31, 20240170 views

Americans seeking affordable healthcare solutions often turn to generic pharmaceuticals from countries like India. However, they face significant barriers in using common payment methods such as Visa, MasterCard, PayPal, and Venmo to purchase these medications. This article explores how shadow regulation, particularly by LegitScript, influences payment processors to block transactions related to online pharmacies, and how Big Pharma and government collusion perpetuate these obstacles. The narrative portrays online generic pharmacies as fraudulent, while in reality, this is a form of commercial protectionism benefitting a select few. By recognizing these challenges and advocating for transparency, consumers can better navigate the complex landscape of pharmaceutical access.