South to Mexico

What are the factors behind the costs of prescription drugs? HORIZON answers the question with an overview of the pricing standards in the industry.

More and more Arizonans and snowbirds are flocking to the Mexican border to purchase prescription drugs that are made in the United States, yet sold at cheaper prices in Mexico. But is it as easy as driving down to Mexico? It's important for consumers to know about both Mexican and American laws that regulate the purchase and importation of medication for personal use. HORIZON takes a trip south of the border, complete with how-to tips on avoiding the hassles and pitfalls.

Follow along on a bus tour to Algodones, Mexico, a small town near Yuma along the California - Mexico border. Meet several people on that tour as they search for cheaper prescription drugs in Mexico. And find out how to safely and effectively buy medications south of the border. (Review important Do's and Don'ts.)

Our in-studio discussion will include

Richard Herrier, Clinical Assistant Professor, University of Arizona College of Pharmacy

Dr. Walter Nieri, Program Director, Sun Health at St. Joseph's Hospital

Prescription Price Comparison List

Medication	Dosage	Phoenix	Mexico
Prilosec	20mg x 30	$136	$10
Prinzide	20-12.5mg x 30	$41	$32
Claritin	10mg x 30	$88	$25

Source:
KAET, 2002, comparison of prices at three different pharmacies each in Phoenix and Los Algodones, Baja California.

Web site Links and Resources

Prescription Drug Prices
AARP MEDICARE Prescription Drug Campaign
Center for Studying Health System Change (Health Facts)
Kaiser Family Foundation (Prescription Drug Facts)
Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America

Buying Prescription Drugs in Mexico
People's Guide to Buying Prescription Drugs in Mexico
RVers Online: Buying Medicines in Mexico
Algodones, Baja California Information

Bus Trips to Mexico
Especially 4 U Tours (Valley) 1-800-331-4968
HavaTours (Lake Havasu, Parker) (888) 386-9777
Coach USA, (statewide) (602) 437-3484
Master's Touch, (Valley & Prescott) (602) 697-0148
Prescription Express (Tucson, Green Valley) (520) 886-8800
Quartzsite Transit Services (Town of Quartzsite) (520) 927-4333