FDA Warns of Counterfeit Medications from Online Pharmacies

The FDA has once again informed consumers and healthcare professionals regarding the dangers associated with buying prescription drugs over the internet. The FDA received information showing that 24 apparently related websites may be involved in the distribution of counterfeit prescription drugs. The website appear to be operated from outside the United States. In this case, consumers ordered the weight loss Xenical, but the tablets they received contained the active ingredient in Meridia. The two medications are not interchangeable, and there was potential harm to some consumers. It should be noted that this is neither the first nor a rare occurrence.

Be wary of online pharmacy sites if:

• there is no way to contact the website pharmacy by phone,
• prices are dramatically lower than the competition, or
• if no prescription from your doctor is required.

We all want to save money on medications, but please put your safety first.

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Resources:

FDA MedWatch Warning.  "Warning About Counterfeit Drugs From Multiple Internet Sellers." May 1, 2007.