Concerns over counterfeit medicines online
5 February 2010
People sourcing medicines over the Internet risk receiving counterfeit medicines which are increasingly linked to side effects and deaths, experts say (Int J Clin Pract, online 2010).
In particular, European experts say the widespread use of counterfeit phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (medicines used to treat impotence) among people with erectile dysfunction pose significant health risks.
In one of the worst cases, 150 Singaporean men were hospitalised after taking counterfeit tadalafil (used for erectile dysfunction) and herbal preparations that all contained a medicine that lowers blood sugar levels. Seven of the men were found comatose, and 4 subsequently died.
The fact that most of these men were obtaining the drugs without a prescription or without seeing a health professional was also an issue, said Associate Professor Doug Lording of Andrology Australia.
“They often bypass a medical assessment and therefore the cause of the erectile dysfunction is not determined,” he said.
European experts said national and international efforts were needed to combat the problem. A spokesperson for the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) — Australia's regulatory agency for medical drugs and devices — said it was unknown how many Australians bought medicines online, but the TGA “works closely with overseas counterfeit drugs agencies”.
The US Center for Medicine in the Public Interest estimates the global sale in counterfeit drugs will reach A$83 billion in 2010.
Other reports have involved counterfeit antibiotics, vaccines and contraceptives.
Last Reviewed: 05 February 2010
- 1. Int J Clin Pract, online 2010
