Panel 3: Connie Jung, Office of Drug Security, Integrity and Recalls

The second panelist, Connie Jung from the Office of Drug Security, Integrity and Recall from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration spoke about how to help patients protect themselves from counterfeit drugs.

She said that patients first of all need to be aware of the risk of receiving counterfeit medications and potential problems associated with them.  FDA is committed to teaching consumers to purchase drugs safely online by first of all purchasing from a U.S. licensed pharmacy.  Additionally, patients must learn to inspect products and packaging for difference and damage to packages.  She also suggests that patients should avoid purchasing medication through email spam or advertisements that say, "FDA approved drugs for cheaper" or "No need for a prescription."  Lastly, she reminds patients to talk to their pharmacists if something feels funny with the medications.

Likewise healthcare providers need to be better educated about counterfeit medications.  They also need to verify that medications look correct, and know who you're doing business with if you're a purchaser of medications.  Be aware of the risks and educate and counsel patients, as well as listen to them for concerns that may mean counterfeit medicatioins.  Lastly, pharmacists and doctors must empty packaging and containers so that they won't be stolen for potential reuse.

Patients who feel they've been exposed to suspect products need to report them to MedWatch.