Department of Health investigators have warned of a proliferation of fake online pharmacies selling ADHD medication and painkillers without a prescription.
Webshops often look like regular online pharmacies, with pictures of people in white coats and persuasive packaging. But most are illegal and in some cases part of criminal networks, investigators said.
Red flags are that prescription drugs can be ordered without a doctor’s note, payments can be made with cryptocurrency, they are not registered with pharmacies, and contact information is vague.
Dozens of webshops were taken offline, one of which was reported to police, investigators said Friday.
People who buy drugs, including sleeping pills and anabolic steroids, from unregulated online pharmacies are putting their health at risk.
“The origin and quality of the drugs are unclear. They may be contaminated or contain too much or too little of the active ingredient along with everything that comes with it. Some people pay but nothing arrives,” the inspectors said. report.
From January to October this year, IGJ received 187 reports about fake pharmacies, compared to 114 during the same period last year. The survey included about 150 websites selling prescription drugs.
IGJ has seen a notable increase in the provision of ADHD medications, which are popular with students. Trimbos Addiction Research Institute contains methylphenidate, which is used to improve concentration and stamina when studying or going out at night. said.
Inspectors have warned medical professionals to be cautious about using ADHD medications purchased online, and have instructed schools and colleges to warn students of the dangers of purchasing potentially dangerous drugs.
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