In a press release, DOH said about 10 percent of medicine presently sold in various drugstores in the country is fake or unregistered with the Bureau of Foods and Drugs.
It explained that counterfeit drug products, both branded and generics, pose serious threats to the public as they lack active ingredients that provide therapeutic effects. Other fake medicine may even have contaminants or adulterants that may be toxic.
According to a health advisory, the shape and color of fake capsules, ampoules or liquids vary a lot from the original. The health department said the public could call its toll-free number (1-800-100) to report drugstores selling counterfeit medicine.
The widespread proliferation of fake drugs prompted government agencies and private institutions to form a coalition to combat this illegal trade.
The Coalition Against Fake Medicine is composed of 10 agencies and private firms such as DOH, BFAD, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Justice, Philippine Medical Association, Drugstores Association of the Philippines, Mercury Drug Corporation, Zuellig Pharma Corporation and Pfizer. - Ferliza C. Contratista