Natural Health Products

Résumé du livre

This is the Standing Committee on Health's report regarding the legislative and regulatory regime governing traditional medicines, homeopathic preparations, and vitamin and mineral supplements (natural health products or NHPs). In preparing the report, the Committee consulted with such stakeholders as consumer associations, manufacturers, distributors, growers, and retailers in the NHP industry, as well as regulators and international participants. Part I provides context for the remainder of the report, including the definition of NHPs and the guiding principles used to steer Committee decisions and recommendations. Part II discusses the expertise available at Health Canada to regulate NHPs, the current regulatory framework for food products and drugs, the labelling of NHPs, and the Food & Drugs Act provisions regarding advertising. Part III reviews policies regarding the importation of drugs for personal use, regulatory cost recovery, and Health Canada appeal processes. Part IV discusses issues related to informed choice for consumers, NHP practitioners, enforcement, Aboriginal healers, plant conservation, and the transition to a new regulatory framework for NHPs. Recommendations for reform are listed throughout the report and summarized at the end. Appendices include minority opinions.