Editorial: Oversight of online druggists

Historically the states -- not the federal government -- have regulated pharmacists. But the days of getting your prescription at the corner drug store have changed dramatically. Today people can get their prescriptions filled through their home computers via the Internet. This has made it extremely difficult, however, for state pharmacy licensing boards to effectively crack down on rogue companies. For instance, it is hard for Nevada regulators to find and then sanction an online pharmacist in another state who is dispensing drugs improperly or illegally.

In an effort to improve the oversight of online pharmacies, President Clinton last week called on Congress to send him legislation that would give the federal Food and Drug Administration the authority to regulate these Internet companies. The legislation also would include $10 million for the FDA's enforcement of this new area and fines of up to $500,000 for those who violate requirements for selling drugs online. The reason for this concern is that there have been a growing number of instances where people are having their prescriptions filled by unlicensed pharmacists, which is fraught with danger. In addition, prescriptions are being filled for people who have never had a physical exam, increasing the prospect for abuse.

The government needs to be careful about regulating commerce over the Internet so as not to stymie its creativity. But when it comes to issues of public health and safety -- such as prescription drug sales -- then government should take all necessary steps to regulate these types of commercial enterprises. It is heartening, then, that many reputable online-pharmaceutical companies so far are keeping an open mind about Clinton's proposal (many of them are linked to large drug store chains that operate retail stores in cities across the nation). Congress should pass the president's plan to boost the oversight of online companies selling prescription drugs.

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