FDA warns public against fake pain relief medicine

MANILA, Philippines — The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned the public against the purchase and use of a counterfeit version of an over-the-counter medicine used for muscle pain relief.

In a recent advisory, the agency identified the Ibuprofen+Paracetamol (Alaxan®FR) 200 mg/325 mg capsule as the medicine with a counterfeit version.

The FDA cautioned the public on the potential health risks associated with the consumption of counterfeit drugs.

“All health care professionals and the general public are hereby warned as to the availability of this counterfeit drug product in the market, which poses potential danger or injury to consumers,” the FDA said.

The FDA cautioned all establishments and drug outlets not to sell or dispense counterfeit products, adding that the importation, sale or offering for sale of such products is in direct violation of the Food and Drug Administration Act of 2009 (Republic Act 9711) and the Special Law on Counterfeit Drugs (Republic Act 8203).

“Anyone found selling the said counterfeit drug products will be penalized,” the agency noted.

The FDA also urged all local government units and law enforcement agencies to ensure that these products are not sold or made available in their localities or areas of jurisdiction.

It reminded consumers to purchase drug products only from FDA-licensed establishments.