TV Show Educates Consumers on Fake Drugs
The Doctors, the internationally syndicated talk show that features four doctors discussing health issues, joined with Consumer Correspondent Susan Koeppen from The CBS Early Show to explain counterfeit medications to consumers.
The Doctors, the internationally syndicated talk show that features four doctors discussing health issues, joined with Consumer Correspondent Susan Koeppen from The CBS Early Show to explain counterfeit medications to consumers.
The report highlights the inflow of counterfeit drugs into the mainstream consumer medicines market and emphasized consumer vigilance. Citing the World Health Organization’s statistic that 10% of all drugs sold worldwide are counterfeit, with possibly less than optimal dosing, side effects, or toxicity.
In addition, The Doctors gave steps for avoiding counterfeit drugs. Initially, they recommend purchasing from only state licensed pharmacies. If purchasing drugs online, find a state licensed pharmacy with a phone number and actual address. Secondly, look for the VIPPS National Association Board of Pharmacy seal and a requirement for a prescription. They warn that 50% of unlicensed pharmacies sell fake drugs. Thirdly, they recommend that if medication doesn’t work or gives uncommon side effects, report your source to a government agency. And lastly, if the price is “too good to be true” then it is possibly counterfeit.