Drug Tourists and Drug Policy on the U.S.-Mexican Border: An Ethnographic Investigation of the Acquisition of Prescription Drugs

• NCJ Number: 169759
• Journal: Journal of Drug Issues Volume: 27 Issue: 4 Dated: (Fall 1997) Pages: 879-897
• Author(s): A Valdez; S J Sifaneck
• Date Published: 1997
• Length: 19 pages
• Grant Number(s): DA07234-02
• Sponsoring Agency: National Institute on Drug Abuse
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study investigates the social dynamics of a "gray market" in prescription drugs and identifies a hidden population of drug users.

Abstract

Recent increases in the prevalence of non-medical prescription drug use across the United States have prompted national concern about the sources of those drugs. This study focuses on the process by which prescription drugs enter the United States from Mexico through "drug tourism." Drug tourism refers to the phenomenon of persons being attracted to a particular location because of the accessibility of licit or illicit drugs and related services. A loophole in US Customs laws enables Americans to legally bring pharmaceutical drugs into this country from Mexico when the drugs are accompanied by a Mexican prescription. Using ethnographic field methods, this study: (1) describes the acquisition process; (2) develops a typology of consumers; and (3) explores the interaction between participants in this process. The article recommends further research into the types, motivation and patterns of users and a search for more effective public policies. In addition, the article suggests the need for more transitional public policy efforts between the United States and Mexico. Notes, references