• Home
• Defective Drug Index
• About A Drug Recall
• Contact A Defective Drug Lawyer

We Can Help.

Researchers Warn Men Against Fake Meds

-November 13, 2008

Pfizer recently conducted a study that found that one out of every 10 men over 35 years old buys counterfeit prescription medication without having a doctor's prescription. Of these, half make their purchases online.

Medications – such as Viagra, obesity drugs and diet pills – are commonly marketed and distributed via health food stores, alternative medicine retailers and online pharmaceutical retailers.

Although buying drugs online is legal, it can also be dangerous, as nearly 90 percent of all online medications are counterfeit, non-FDA approved versions of the originals.

Reasons for Buying Possibly Fake Meds
In this study of 900 men, researchers asked the participants their reasons for buying possibly fake medications.

About 300 men responded that buying meds without a prescription (either online or at a physical location) was far more convenient than traditional routes of getting prescriptions, which involves having a doctor's appointment, getting a prescription and then taking it to and waiting at the pharmacy.

Other reasons participants gambled with fake medications included to:

• Remain anonymous, as buying meds online can minimize potential embarrassment (especially if the drugs being purchased are for erectile dysfunction or another potentially humiliating condition)

• Save money, as many online pharmaceutical companies offer discounts for generics and possibly fake medications.

While most men were aware that they could be receiving counterfeit meds by purchasing them outside of a pharmacy, it's clear that convenience, anonymity and cost outweighed any worries of developing health problems from the use of fake drugs.

Dangers of Counterfeit Meds
The findings of this study are particularly important because taking medications without a prescription and taking fake drugs can be incredibly dangerous.

Researchers point out that starting new medications without the oversight of a medical professional may cause negative drug interactions and/or health complications, as medications can come with their own risks and side effects that a non-medical professional (or consumer) may be unaware of.

Fake Medications Could Include Toxins
Moreover, by taking fake medications, people may be unknowingly consuming toxic substances, such as rat poison. Because fake meds aren't FDA approved, they may contain a range of unhealthy to toxic substances that can significantly damage a person's health.

Consequently, researchers are urging men to seek medical advice before buying or taking any new medication. Similarly, anyone who suspects he has taken a fake medication should seek immediate medical attention to avoid potentially irreversible damage.

(Source: BBC Health News)

Have you been harmed by an OTC or prescription medication? If so, contact us today to talk to an experienced professional who will provide you with the legal support you need to pursue your legal claim.

• Reglan
• Raptiva
• Yaz Birth Control
• Nuvaring
• Duragesic Patch
• Heparin