NEVADA BOARD GAMBLES ON CHEAP CANADIAN PRESCRIPTIONS

The NevadaBoard of Pharmacynarrowlyapproved a controversialplan tomake it easierfor state residentsto importlower-priced prescriptions from Canada.The program, approved by a 4-3 vote, willinvolve the licensing of 4 Canadian pharmaciesto mail prescription drugs to Nevadans.

The program has the backing of keymembers of the state legislature but muststill be approved by Nevada's LegislativeCommission before it can take effect.Under the new program, only drugsapproved for use in both the United Statesand Canada will be eligible for sale toNevadans. Certain other drugs that requirerefrigeration, such as insulin, also will beexcluded.

The plan, which could take effect asearly as May, will allow the approved pharmaciesto provide patients with an e-mailaddress and a toll-free phone number toplace orders or ask questions.