#StopFakeMeds #ThinkSmart
What is a fake medicine?
It is a medicine that passes itself off as real and which in reality is not: it is done intentionally, to deceive us.
Its identity and/or origin are deliberately and fraudulently falsified.
They often have a different dosage from the original medicine – too much or too little active ingredient. They may have a fake packaging box.
All medicines are affected: registered brand medications and generics.
Example: false labeling of over-dosed excipients which are used in syrups for children, and responsible for hundreds of deaths. The WHO has already published 8 alerts (the latest dates from April 15, 2024).
Why does this concern us all?
1/Because fake medicines are responsible for 400,000 deaths per year.
2/ Because they represent 1 in 10 medicines in circulation.
Where are they found?
Everywhere ! in all countries, and online. In pharmacies, in hospitals, in dispensaries, or on the street. At home too, after purchases from an illegal online pharmacy.
What shapes? – All: liquid or solid (soluble, tablets, injectable, ointments).
What types of fake medicines are found? All
- Essential medications – antibiotics, painkillers, antidiabetics, anticancers, heart medications, vaccines, etc.
- Comfort medications – diet, erectile dysfunction, hair loss, etc.
What price ?
At a discounted price compared to the normal selling price, at the same price as the original medicine and sometimes more expensive than the authentic medicine.
Talking about it saves lives…
