APhA Recommends Consumers Use Caution When Shopping Online for Medications
WASHINGTON, July 17 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — The
American Pharmacists Association (APhA) recommends that consumers exercise
caution when shopping online for their medications. This announcement comes
after the recent death of a Canadian woman who purchased counterfeit drugs
online. A coroner's report found that the products were contaminated with
extremely high levels of metal. Prior to shopping online, APhA advises consumers
to first talk to their pharmacist about their unmet medication needs. APhA
strongly cautions consumers to be vigilant because, as this unfortunate death
indicates, products imported from other countries may contain ingredients that
are harmful to humans and animals.
"Consumers should be aware that they might be putting
themselves or loved ones at risk by purchasing medications online," said Dr.
John A. Gans, Executive Vice President and CEO. "To protect your health and
welfare, you need to do your homework."
APhA urges consumers to take the following precautions if
they choose to shop for medications online:
1. Only Buy Medications from Reputable Vendors. Today,
many leading U.S.- based retailers and managed healthcare providers allow
consumers to order their medications online. These websites require consumers to
provide a valid prescription from their physician and require that a pharmacist
be available to answer questions. When in doubt, check with your state board of
pharmacy. Some legitimate Internet pharmacies are certified. To check this list,
visit
http://www.vipps.info/. 2. Review, Ask and Tell. When a medication arrives,
review the package labeling and inspect the contents before taking the
medication. Do you notice differences in size, shape, color or smell? If you
have a question, first call the company you purchased the medication from. If
you believe you have received a counterfeit product, tell your pharmacist and
doctor. Consumers should also submit a report to the FDA's consumer complaint
website: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/medwatch/medwatch-online.htm. 3.
Talk to Your Pharmacist. Don't be afraid to ask your pharmacist if you have
questions about the medications you are taking. The pharmacist can help prevent
medication-related errors and help you get the most out of your medications.
While pharmacists are busy, they welcome questions. As the medication expert on
the healthcare team, they are available to assist you with your medication
needs.
Remember, whether you choose to buy online or visit your
community pharmacy, it is still important that you maintain a relationship with
your pharmacist.
The American Pharmacists Association, founded in 1852 as
the American Pharmaceutical Association, represents more than 60,000 practicing
pharmacists, pharmaceutical scientists, student pharmacists, pharmacy
technicians, and others interested in advancing the profession. APhA, dedicated
to helping all pharmacists improve medication use and advance patient care, is
the first-established and largest association of pharmacists in the United
States.
Website:
http://www.vipps.info/
Website:
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/
17 July 2007