US Drug Supply Chain
The security of the pharmaceutical supply chain is vital to protecting public health. We have embarked on many endeavors to help ensure the security and integrity of the supply chain.
Protecting the Drug Supply Chain
Following the final rule approved by Trump Administration and published by Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2020, states can now submit proposals to establish their own wholesale prescription drug importation program from Canada.
In January 2024, Florida became the first state that FDA has authorized to import drugs from Canada; as of June 2025, Florida had not yet begun importing drugs from Canada. Several other states including Colorado, Maine, New Hampshire, and New Mexico submitted proposals to FDA but, to date, none have received authorization.
While the desire to decrease the costs of prescription drugs is understandable, states may face challenges ensuring patient safety and securing the global supply chain, as discussed in a joint statement that was issued by 75 pharmacy organizations..
We work to support the boards of pharmacy and educate and protect the public about state drug importation plans by:
- providing guidance to state and federal governments and other policy makers on the risks associated with prescription drug importation and the necessary regulatory oversight process to help mitigate those risks;
- working with state and federal regulators to implement the Drug Supply Chain Security Act (DSCSA), including providing education and other tools to regulators and supply chain participants to assist in implementation; and
- educating the public about the risks associated with purchasing prescription drugs from unknown sources online and through social media.
Supporting DSCSA Implementation
The Drug Supply Chain Security Act requires electronic, interoperable product tracing at the package level, across the pharmaceutical supply chain. Passed under the Drug Quality and Security Act of 2013, a 10-year timeline for full implementation of the DSCSA requirements was established. In November of 2023, FDA announced a stabilization period would go into effect for trading partners to comply with DSCSA regulations. FDA is continuing to work toward implementation, hosting several town halls throughout 2025 to discuss progress with stakeholders in the supply chain.
For several years before the implementation deadline, we have worked with an industry-wide network of regulators and stakeholders to create a solution to support implementation of the requirements. We conducted pilot programs to uncover interoperability gaps between industry participants and state regulators, as well as to understand business requirements and the tools and processes needed to meet DSCSA requirements.
In 2023, we announced our solution for the supply chain: Pulse by NABPTM.
Pulse is an inclusive, accessible, and secure digital platform that simplifies the process of achieving DSCSA compliance. Pulse provides access to user-friendly tools and a comprehensive network of verified relationships, enabling consistent communication with trusted partners across the supply chain from manufacturers to dispensers.
We continue to work with regulators and industry stakeholders to develop this complex platform and roll it out in phases. We have already seen the potential for Pulse with the launch of the product verification service that identifies potential illegitimate products in the supply chain.
Additional Resources
Increasing awareness about state importation programs is necessary to maintain patient safety. More information about prescription drug importation can be found in the below resources.
Watch this video detailing the presidential initiative of 2021-2022 NABP President Caroline D. Juran, BSPharm, DPH (Hon).