Manila, Philippines – The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a reminder to the public to be more vigilant when purchasing medicines and vaccines, especially from online platforms and unauthorized facilities, following a surge in reports about counterfeit medical products circulating in the country.
According to the DOH, consumers should avoid buying any medicine or vaccine that shows errors in labeling or spelling, unusual packaging, or lacks essential information such as the FDA batch or lot number, manufacturing date, and expiration date.
The agency also warned the public to stay alert for products with unusual shapes, smell, or taste, as well as medicines that appear to have no therapeutic effect after intake.
The DOH emphasized that sellers or establishments without proper authorization from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) should not be trusted.
The public is encouraged to immediately report any suspicious medicines or vaccines to the FDA.
The DOH continues to remind everyone to prioritize safety and to buy only from legitimate pharmacies and authorized facilities.