Some implications of legalized substitution of prescribed pharmaceuticals

In April 1962 the Alberta Government passed legislation permitting a pharmacist to substitute drugs on a written medical prescription unless the doctor indicated otherwise. The intent was stated to be in the interests of cheaper drugs for the people of Alberta. The legality of this legislature has been questioned in Federal courts of law. The legislation has been formally criticized by the official representatives of medicine and pharmacy on the ground that indiscriminate substitution of drugs is not in the public interest until such time as the quality of all available drugs is assured by governmental or other authoritative agency. It is not within the function of the Food and Drug Directorate to guarantee the quality of drugs sold in Canada, this assurance normally being provided in the trade mark adopted by the manufacturer.