[e-drug] Returned medicines and drug donations (7)

["Jim Russo" <JBRusso@aol.com>]

E-DRUG: Returned medicines and drug donations (7)
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As founding director of the Partnership for Quality Medical Donations, I
agree with Kirsten Myhr that the good returned medicines might do is 
outweighed by the harm, real or potential.  
 
The concern many express about unused drugs going to waste while patients  
in need go without is understandable, and in some locales, admirable 
efforts have been organized to meet unmet needs responsibly. The best
solution, however, requires systemic change rather then patching.
 
For eight years, the WHO Guidelines on Drug Donations have proscribed
donation of returned medicines. During that time, PQMD-member drug
donations conforming to the Guidelines have multiplied perhaps six-fold,
suggesting no need to weaken them.  
 
Lastly, in contemplating what standards to apply for drugs for the
indigent, the rules protecting the rest of us should apply. In the US,
I know, dispensing a returned medication is a violation of Federal law.

Regards,
 
Jim      
 
James B.  Russo
146 Koenig Rd.
Bernville, PA 19506
USA
610 488 9060 
484  269 7490 (m)
jbrusso@aol.com