Arrests Made in Counterfeit Alli Case

Back in January, we told you about an FDA alert regarding counterfeit Alli—an FDA-approved, over-the-counter weight loss drug—which was being sold over the Internet.

The FDA found that the counterfeit pills were made with varying amounts of the stimulant sibutramine, which can be particularly harmful to those with a history of cardiovascular disease and can lead to elevated blood pressure, stroke or heart attack.

Thankfully, an investigation of the counterfeit Alli led to the arrest of two people, who were charged with illegally importing the fake medicines from China.

The Wall Street Journal reported last month that at least one person had fallen victim to the scheme and had an adverse reaction, including headaches, chills and heart-attack-like symptoms. The Wall Street Journal also noted that the man “had been taking an authentic, government-approved version of Alli when he found a website where he found purported cheaper versions of the medicine online.”

We know many people are feeling the financial stress of paying for medicines, especially in a down economy. Yet, as we so often say here at the Partnership for Safe Medicines (PSM), patients must be vigilant and watch for those that look to threaten their health and safety or that of their family.

Take a look at our Safe Savings guide to learn more about how to safely save on medications, including information about prescription assistance programs and tips for safe online shopping.

As we work toward mitigating the threat counterfeit drugs through new technologies and collaboration between private industry, the public sector and international agencies, we encourage patients and health care providers to remain vigilant to these public health dangers.

As for those arrested in connection with the counterfeit Alli case, both individuals stand to face up to a $250,000 fine and several years in prison.