George Kircher says a three-month supply of his heart medicine costs $144 through a Canadian pharmacy, compared with $750 in the United States with Medicare.
The Claxton resident is now weighing other options after learning that new federal requirements could affect deliveries of medicine ordered from abroad.
Kircher has used Pharmstore of Canada for nearly three years. His most recent shipment included a pharmacy notice warning that the new international-mail rules could affect his medication delivery.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection says international mail entry will remain unchanged until Jan. 20, 2027.
The agency extended the deadline for mandatory implementation from late October to late January.
The requirements do not ban medicine, but they add paperwork, costs and other obstacles for people who use international pharmacies.
CBP Office of Trade Executive Assistant Commissioner Susan Thomas said the requirements are intended to close gaps that criminals have used to move contraband through international mail.
Kircher said he contacted elected officials and was told they are monitoring the situation.
He says he could face an additional $600 every three months and is considering alternatives, including a different medication or a Watchman procedure.
Yolonda Harris
News Now Georgia
