With weight-loss drugs all the rage these days I thought this post to be especially important. This is in response to an older post about counterfeit drugs. They are out there – even with over-the-counter medications like Alli. Tests conducted by drug maker GlaxoSmithKline show that counterfeit versions of Alli do not contain the active ingredient orlistat but instead a controlled substance called sibutramine. Sibutramine should not be taken without a doctor’s supervision and monitoring. Some frequent side effects include dry mouth, paradoxically increased appetite, nausea, strange taste in mouth, upset stomach, constipation, trouble sleeping, dizziness, drowsiness, menstrual cramps/pain, headache, flushing, or joint/muscle pain.

Counterfeit Alli looks similar to the authentic product, however some notable differences occur with packaging.
1. Outer cardboard packaging missing a “Lot” code
2. Expiration date that includes the month, day and year – authentic Alli only includes month and year
3. Packaging in a plastic bottle that has a slightly taller and wider cap with coarser ribbing than genuine product
4. Plain foil inner safety seal under the plastic cap without any printed words – authentic Alli seal is printed with “SEALED for YOUR PROTECTION”
5. Contains larger capsules with a white powder instead of small white pellets

See FDA’s full report here including pictures.

Remember – be a conscientious consumer and watch out for counterfeit medication, it could have very adverse outcomes on your health.

A global crackdown on counterfeit drugs has uncovered more than 700 alleged packages of fake or suspicious prescription drugs including Claritin, Viagra and Vicodin. Some of the drugs might have had 3 times the active agreement than normally prescribed, others were placebos and some drugs contained materials typically not found in medications including drywall material, antifreeze and yellow highway paint.

See article for more information.

With the increasingly high costs of prescription medications, many people are turning to the Internet to fill their prescriptions. Internet pharmacies are a hot bed for counterfeit drugs. However, don’t assume you’re safe if you purchase from a brick and mortar pharmacy – counterfeit drugs can make their way into the supply chain anywhere.

Counterfeit drugs are currently a $28 million industry. Don’t let yourself be a victim. Below are some tips that will help.

1. If you take a medication for a chronic condition – save the packaging from the month before and compare the bottle, packaging or the pill itself.

2. If you only receive the pill in a generic bottle compare a picture of the tablet at www.fda.gov by simply searching for the medication.

3. If you are taking a medication and it just doesn’t feel the same or is not working like it normally does, see your doctor and show the medication to your pharmacist.

4. If the medication is deemed counterfeit, save a sample until you see your doctor to make sure there will be no long term complications or side effects.