The security of the pharmaceutical supply chain is vital to protecting the 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 the Trump Administration and published by Food and Drug Administration in 2020, states can now submit proposals to establish their own wholesale prescription drug importation program from Canada. While we understand the desire to decrease the costs of prescription drugs, states may face challenges while ensuring patient safety and securing the global supply chain.

Continuing the presidential initiative of former NABP President Caroline D. Juran, BSPharm, DPH (Hon) we have worked 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.  

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. 

• Read the Report of the Task Force on State Oversight on Drug Importation. 
• Read President Juran’s blog post about how NABP can help states to safely develop drug importation plans.  
• Explore the Department of Health and Human Services and Food and Drug Administration’s Safe Importation Action Plan describing the two pathways for lower cost medications for patients.  
• Find resources from the United States Pharmacopeia (USP), including a supply chain map, to help strengthen the pharmaceutical supply chain and reduce risk.  

Pulse by NABP

Following the passing of the Drug Supply Chain Security Act in 2013, a 10-year timeline was established for full implementation of a set of requirements, including electronic, interoperable product tracing at the package level, across the pharmaceutical supply chain. With the final deadline approaching in November, in early 2023 we announced our solution for the supply chain: Pulse by NABP^TM. 

Pulse is an inclusive, accessible, and secure digital platform that simplifies the process of achieving DSCSA compliance. Launching this Summer, Pulse will provide 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.

Learn more about Pulse.