 |
 |
Crackdown needed on harmful and bogus prescription drugs
September 10, 2008 10:32 AM
Bill Newton Dunn MEP, Jim Thomson (Chairman of EAASM) and Baroness Sarah Ludford MEP discuss the problems of counterfeit medicines
Liberal Democrat MEP for London Sarah Ludford, supporting a European Parliament event aimed at tackling counterfeit and substandard medicines and commenting on a new report about the dangers to consumers, said:
"Sales of bogus prescription drugs raise important questions about patient safety in Europe as well as the developing world. In some of the worst cases, consumption of counterfeit 'medicines' has led to long term health problems and even death. At the other extreme, people buy worthless powder. I am backing efforts to end illegal and harmful activity while ensuring legal free trade of genuine products."
The report recently published by the European Alliance for Access to Safe Medicines (EAASM) outlines the dangers for unsuspecting customers who make online purchases of counterfeit prescription drugs which can contain toxic substances such as paint and shoe polish. Internet sales represent a growing problem with the report claiming that over 95% of the online pharmacies researched are operating illegally.
Sarah Ludford added: "Awareness of this increasing problem needs to be raised so that individuals who are in need of medical help know the importance of going through the proper channels. I am also taking up with the government the apparent complacency and inaction of the Department of Health and the Home Office on this very serious threat."
What would you like to do next?
-
Subscribe for updates
Follow the party's activity on...
- Twitter:
- Liberal Democrats
- Facebook:
- Liberal Democrats
- YouTube:
- Liberal Democrats