Online drugstore offers Canadian prices to U.S. gays and lesbians (9528)

Developed specifically to cater to gays and lesbians in the United States who seek cheaper prescription medications from Canada, a new online pharmacy opened this month that allows American consumers to buy drugs from across the border at a fraction of their U.S. cost. Rainbow Community Prescription Drug Co., a gay-owned company found online at www.rainbowcpd.com, is based in the United States but partnered with a licensed Canadian pharmacy and as such can offer prescription medications at Canadian government-mandated costs. The company's developers say that the lowered drug costs combined with a favorable currency exchange rate could result in discounts of up to 70% from U.S. prices for some medications. The reduced costs can be a particular benefit for HIV-positive Americans, who can face monthly medication bills of up to $2,000 or more in the United States. "It is the goal of Rainbowcpd.com to be the primary source for the gay, lesbian, and minority communities throughout the U.S. for their discounted prescription drugs," company officials say in a press release.

Users of the online service will need a valid U.S. prescription issued by a U.S. doctor in order to purchase medications. A Canadian doctor at Rainbowcpd.com will review the prescription before it is filled by the Canadian pharmacy. First-time customers will have to complete and sign a patient questionnaire and customer agreement form. Payment for the medications is accepted by Visa, MasterCard, or money order. Delivery takes about three weeks for a first-time order and two weeks for refills. No U.S. insurance is accepted. Customers can order a maximum of a 90-day supply of available medications, and some medications are not available for shipment to the United States.

Rainbowcpd.com will donate 50 cents from every prescription filled up to a maximum of $1 million to a sponsored HIV/AIDS service organization in the United States.

For more information about Rainbowcpd.com, call (800) 608-9491 or go online to www.rainbowcpd.com.