Canadian internet pharmacies may offer cost-effective alternative

There are a number of assistance programs in the U.S. that are intended to help people afford their medications. However, these may not be as effective as seeking to buy prescriptions from a Canadian internet pharmacy, as research suggests that purchasing pills in the U.S. can still be unaffordable, even for those who get assistance.

Researchers from the University of Michigan recently sought to assess whether stroke victims who were either uninsured or covered by Medicare Part D were able to afford their medications. After examining data from more than 2,600 stroke victims, the researchers found that many had trouble purchasing their prescriptions, even if they were covered by Medicare.

The results showed that many individuals simply didn't fill their prescriptions because they couldn't afford them. This could have dangerous consequences.

"Federal programs to reduce cost-related non-adherence to medication may not be working as intended, and a resulting large number of stroke survivors are at risk for subsequent stroke events," said Deborah A. Levine, who led the investigation.

The findings suggest that individuals may still be better off filling their prescriptions at Canadian internet pharmacies. These providers frequently offer lower prices.