The Davao City Health Office (CHO) has intensified its public warning against the proliferation of counterfeit medicines, especially those sold through unauthorized online platforms. This advisory comes as the office continues its procurement of fast-moving medicines like Losartan for the Botika ng Bayan to meet rising demand.
Five Red Flags to Identify Fake Medicines
On December 19, the CHO outlined five critical ways for Dabawenyos to distinguish dangerous fake drugs from genuine, life-saving medications. The health office emphasized extreme caution when purchasing drugs, particularly from unverified online sellers.
"Pagbantay sa mga tambal ug bakuna nga ginabaligya online sa mga dili authorized na mga pasilidad," the CHO's official statement stressed, urging vigilance against medicines sold by unauthorized facilities.
The five signs of counterfeit drugs include:
- Errors in labels or incorrect spellings on packaging.
- No noticeable therapeutic effect after taking the medicine.
- Visible defects in the drug's appearance, including its form, size, smell, or taste.
- Missing crucial information like the FDA batch or lot number, manufacturing date, and expiration date.
- The seller or facility lacks a proper license to operate.
Life-Threatening Dangers of Counterfeit Drugs
City Health Officer Dr. Tomas Miguel Ababon explained that consuming fake drugs passed off as authentic poses severe, potentially fatal risks. "Ang mga peke na droga dili nato matag-an, dili luwas, ug mamahimong makahulga sa kinabuhi," he stated.
Dr. Ababon detailed the multifaceted dangers. Unlike regulated genuine medicines, counterfeit drugs undergo no quality or safety controls. They may be produced in unsanitary conditions, contaminated with toxic substances, or have incorrect dosages—being either dangerously strong or uselessly weak.
Furthermore, these fake products fail to treat the medical conditions they claim to address, allowing illnesses to worsen due to lack of proper treatment. The unpredictable strength of ingredients also creates a high risk of accidental overdose, which can lead to death.
Legal and Social Consequences
The health officer also highlighted the legal ramifications. Buying, selling, or possessing counterfeit pharmaceuticals is illegal and can result in arrest, substantial fines, or a criminal record. He noted that the fake drug trade often fuels organized crime networks.
Beyond physical harm, using counterfeit medicines can cause significant psychological distress, including increased anxiety, panic, or confusion, especially when unexpected side effects occur.
Dr. Ababon's final advice was clear: "Kung dili sigurado bahin sa usa ka tambal or sangkap, ang labing luwas na lakang mao ang pagpakigsulti sa usa ka healthcare professional, pharmacist, o gisaligan nga adult." He reinforced that avoiding fake drugs is a direct protection of one's health, safety, and future.
For ongoing updates on health advisories and programs, the public is encouraged to follow the official Facebook Page of the Davao City Health Office.
