The Benefits of Parallel Imports of Medication for Consumers in the UK

Jul 10, 2023 Eczema, Psoriasis and Dermatitis

 

What are parallel imports of medication and how do they affect you as a consumer in the UK? This blog post explains it all. 

Parallel imports have become an important factor in the pharmaceutical industry. Through parallel imports genuine branded medicines from other European Economic Area (EEA) countries can be made available to the UK market. This can be beneficial to you as a consumer in several ways.

 

Parallel Imports Save Money

One of the biggest advantages of parallel imports is the potential cost savings for consumers like you. Being able to order and move around medications like this builds more competition in the market and generally makes buying in some medications cheaper. These generic drugs can be significantly cheaper than their UK-sourced equivalents. This often provides substantial savings for both individuals buying items at the chemist and the National Health Service (NHS). Anything that can save the NHS money without impacting healthcare is a great scheme.

 

Parallel Imports Leads to Improved Access to Medication

When importing medications from different EEA countries it can be easier to get hold of medications that might be in short supply elsewhere. Pharmaceuticals aren’t as limited to one geographical area. This can also mean that when we can’t source certain medications here in the UK, we might be able to get hold of them abroad. If you regularly take a medication that you rely on the last thing you want to hear is that the pharmacy hasn’t been able to get hold of any stock of it. Parallel imports can help reduce these instances.

An example of Lotriderm Cream Parallel Import

 

Is it Safe to Buy Medications From Other Countries?

Parallel imports of medication undergo rigorous quality assurance checks to ensure they meet the same safety standards as medicines sourced within the UK. Regulatory bodies such as the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) monitor the importation process to ensure that the imported drugs are genuine, correctly labelled, and safe for use.

 

Parallel Imports Can Be Beneficial to the Environment

Parallel imports of medication contribute to a more sustainable healthcare system. Importing medicines from other EU countries reduces the need for long-distance transportation and the associated carbon emissions from manufacturing and shipping processes. Of course, importing from more “local” countries also often speeds up the arrival of much-needed medications.

An example of Dermovate Cream Parallel Import

 

Can Anyone Import Medication This Way?

No. UK law is very clear on who can parallel import medications and under what circumstances. There are many reasons for this and they ensure that medication supply imports continue to flow safely and that medications that do come into the UK adhere to the same labelling, dosage and safety requirements.

 

Parallel Imports of Medication - In Conclusion

It makes sense when buying medications to take advantage of parallel imports. The only difference to the customer is that they may receive medications that look different as their packaging has been created elsewhere. The regulations surrounding medications imported this way are very clear and patient leaflets and labelling have to be added so that the information is clear, in English and matches up with UK dosage and safety information. 

Many people who take medications regularly may find that their medication might look different occasionally. The boxes may be a different size or colour and the manufacturer’s name is different. This can indicate that these medications may have been imported. 

An example of Losec Parallel Import

The UK is fortunate to have access to parallel imports as they make a significant difference in accessing difficult-to-find medications and reduce the cost. 

If you ever have any questions about the medications you receive with your prescription check with your pharmacist.