Counterfeit Drug Dangers

What you see isn’t always what you get. As prescription drugs have become big business, there are those who have no qualms about passing off fake pills as the real thing to make a quick buck. The problem has become so widespread that the Food and Drug Administration now warns consumers and healthcare professionals of the risk for obtaining counterfeit drugs when purchasing prescription medications online.

The FDA issued their warning after being informed on three separate occasions that counterfeit versions of orlistat (known by the brand name Xenical) were being sold by online pharmacies. None of the capsules contained orlistat. Instead, one contained sibutramine (known by the brand name Meridia) and the others were filled with talc and starch.

The counterfeit products can’t be detected on sight alone because they closely resemble legitimate products. The fake drugs are usually in blister packs stamped with what appear to be valid lot numbers and expiration dates.

Since the offending websites usually operate from outside the U.S., it’s hard for authorities to shut them down. To protect themselves, consumers should be wary of any company that cannot be contacted by phone, if their prices appear to be extremely low or if no prescription is required.

Prescription Drug Addiction

If you or someone you love is battling an addiction, call The Canyon at our toll-free number. Someone is there to take your call 24 hours a day and answer any questions you have about treatment, financing or insurance.