Dangerous Deception: Fake Online Pharmacies Exploit Medicine Shortages
A worrying trend is emerging in the wake of ongoing medicine shortages. Vulnerable patients desperate for vital medications are becoming targets of fake online pharmacies, putting their health and well-being at risk. While legitimate online pharmacies can often be a valuable resource in times of shortages, counterfeit sites using deceptive tactics are posing a serious threat.
The Rise of Fake Pharmacies
Experts warn that these fraudulent platforms are increasingly prevalent, trading on people’s desperation and cruelly exploiting medication shortages.
In its recent medicines shortages report, the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) highlighted rising concerns regarding these fraudulent operations.
“These unregulated websites often specifically target those medicines that are in short supply,” the report stated.
The RPS’s James Davies, director for England, has observed these websites proliferating as shortages rise. He’s seen reports of fraudulent sites offering medications for ADHD, diabetes, and hormone replacement therapy, just to name a few.
Heightened Risk for Vulnerable Patients
While quantifying the extent of the illegal activity is challenging, the trend is undeniably on the rise. A complex combination of factors is fueling this dangerous trend.
“People are facing real hardships due to these shortages and this is pushing more people online to often unsafe and unregulated sources,” says Mr. Davies. “When people are desperate, they become susceptible to being exploited,”
The issue isn’t limited to obscure websites shrouded in darkness. Fraudulent sites are becoming increasingly sophisticated, mimicking the branding of legitimate online pharmacies, they remain a constant source of frustration for both patient groups and healthcare professionals.
“We need to protect people from diabetes medications being sold by fraudulent websites,” warns The Menopause Society, which has issued warnings about the dangers of buying HRT online. The Society’s advisors report that some people were even advised by their doctors to buy HRT drugs online during shortages.
Dangerous and Seeking to Some Patients in Need of Urgent Medical
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These fake web sites offer the
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at enticing prices, preying on those who are unable to find their prescribed medication locally.
But the risks associated with purchasing from untrustworthy online sources can be devastating.
“There is simply no way of knowing what is really in the items listed for sale on those websites,” warns The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). The impersonators.[The MHRA:] ‘What’s in them could be fake or not appropriate, and could lead to serious harm?’
Chemistry Regulation.”
The GPhC ([General Pharmaceutical Council](https://www.pharmacyregulation.org/) reiterates that patients should double-check online pharmacies are registered. However, confirming a pharmacy’s legitimacy is not always straightforward.
Protecting Yourself and Others
It’s essential to be vigilant when shopping for medications online, especially now.
“We understand that medicines shortages can be distressing,” says Roz Gittins, chief pharmacy officer for the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC). “It is vital people do not use unregulated websites
• What are the factors driving the proliferation of fake online pharmacies?
## Dangerous Deception: A Growing Threat
**Narrator:** Today, we’re talking about a concerning trend – the rise of fake online pharmacies preying on vulnerable patients desperate for medications in short supply. Joining me to shed light on this issue is James Davies, Director for England at the Royal Pharmaceutical Society. Welcome, Mr. Davies.
**James Davies:** Thank you for having me.
**Narrator:** We’ve seen increasing reports about medicine shortages, particularly for drugs like Ozempic and ADHD medication. How are these shortages contributing to the rise of fake pharmacies?
**James Davies:** Unfortunately, these shortages create a perfect storm for these fraudulent websites to thrive. [[1](https://nabp.pharmacy/news/blog/diabetes-drug-shortages-and-fake-ozempic/)]When legitimate pharmacies run out of crucial medications, people struggling to find their treatments turn online, often out of desperation. Sadly, these fake pharmacies exploit this vulnerability, offering these in-demand medications at attractive prices, often without requiring valid prescriptions.
**Narrator:** This sounds incredibly dangerous. What are some of the risks associated with purchasing medication from these unregulated sources?
**James Davies:** The risks are substantial. Firstly, there’s no guarantee the medication you receive is genuine. It could be counterfeit, contaminated, or entirely different from what you ordered. This can have serious consequences for your health, potentially leading to ineffective treatment or even dangerous side effects.
Secondly, these sites often steal personal information, putting you at risk of identity theft.
**Narrator:** It’s truly alarming. What can people do to protect themselves?
**James Davies:** Always be wary of websites offering medications at unusually low prices or without requiring a prescription. Stick to reputable online pharmacies that require a valid prescription from your doctor and are verified by organizations like the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP). Be sure to carefully check websites for proper licensing and contact information. When in doubt, consult with your healthcare provider or local pharmacist for reliable information and guidance.
**Narrator:** Thank you for sharing this valuable information, Mr. Davies. We hope this interview raises awareness about this serious issue and helps people make informed choices when it comes to their medication.
