DOH warns against fake, unauthorized medicines online

The Department of Health warned against buying medicines from unauthorized sources online.

In a statement posted on its Facebook page on Thursday, Dec. 4, the health agency listed telltale signs that a drug may be fake.

Such include the following:

• Wrong label, spelling, or suspicious packaging
• Missing digits in the FDA batch/lot number, manufacturing, or expiration date
• Peculiar shape, smell, or taste 
• Lack of effectiveness of the drug
• No license from the seller or the facility

The department also advised consumers to report any irregularities to the Food and Drug Administration via email at ereport@fda.gov.ph or by contacting (02) 8809-5596.

The FDA likewise recently reminded the public to exercise vigilance and caution when it comes to buying health products from unofficial channels. "Such products did not undergo the appropriate reviews by the FDA nor by a local marketing authorization holder, to check compliance with quality and safety standards," it said. "Such products may contain harmful ingredients or impurities that may pose health risks to consumers, such as allergies, skin problems, or other adverse health issues."