Here’s a summary of the CDC alert, based on the provided text:
CDC Alert: Counterfeit Prescription Pills from Illegal Online Pharmacies
The CDC is warning the public about a significant health risk associated with ordering prescription medications from online pharmacies. The U.S. Department of Justice recently indicted individuals running illegal online pharmacies that are:
* Selling Counterfeit Pills: These pharmacies are distributing millions of unregulated, counterfeit prescription pills.
* Risky Contents: Many of these pills contain fentanyl (a potent opioid) and methamphetamine.
* Overdose Risk: Individuals who have purchased drugs from these sources are at risk of overdose.
Key Takeaways & Recommendations:
* Be cautious of deeply discounted prices and pharmacies not requiring a prescription. These are red flags.
* Only use medications prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider and dispensed by a licensed pharmacy.
* Most online pharmacies selling prescription drugs operate illegally (around 95%).
* If you’ve purchased pills online:
* Verify the pharmacy is U.S. state-licensed using the FDA’s tool: https://www.fda.gov/drugs/besaferx-your-source-online-pharmacy-information/locate-state-licensed-online-pharmacy
* Do not consume medication from unlicensed pharmacies.
* Do not take pills if you suspect they are counterfeit.
Resources:
* DOJ Announcement: https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdny/pr/us-attorney-announces-charges-against-18-defendants-scheme-manufacture-and-distribute
* Safe Pharmacy: https://safe.pharmacy/buy-safely/
* FDA Information: https://www.fda.gov/drugs/besaferx-your-source-online-pharmacy-information/locate-state-licensed-online-pharmacy
