Federal regulatory agencies

Explains how drugs and other therapeutic products are regulated by the Health Products and Food Branch of Health Canada.

Examines activities financed by drug companies to promote sales by expanding the pool of patients potentially treated by their products, when no benefit in terms of reduced morbidity is likely.

Argues that the federal government is protecting drug companies instead of the public by keeping information about the drug approval process secret. Examines the impact of this on women's health.

Argues that the lack of transparency in the drug approval process can lead to inappropriate, unnecessary and sometimes dangerous drug use, and it impedes the development of knowledge and appropriate decision-making.

Illustrates the flaws in the Canadian drug approval and drug regulatory processes, using the current Vioxx scandal as example.

Summarizes the findings of research on Depo-Provera's effect on bone density (2004).

Discusses the debate surrounding Depo-Provera's approval for contraception use in 1997 when women's groups had already highlighted it's impact on bone mineral density.

Criticizes federal prescription drug regulation using Diane-35 (cyproterone acetate and ethinyl estradiol) as an example.

Presents the results of a survey where Canadians were asked to give their views and opinions on the effectiveness of Health Canada's methods to communicate health product safety information.

Provides a study of the health aspects of prescription drugs in Canada. Addresses issues relevant to prescription drugs in Canada. Includes recommendations.