Falsified Medicines

Falsified and substandard (FS) medicines have the potential to undermine global health gains. These products are always ineffective, can be toxic, and can lead to drug resistance. Falsified products include medicines for the treatment of cancer, diabetes, bacterial and fungal infections, malaria and other medical conditions. They include tablets, syrups and injectable fluids, and both adult and pediatric formulations. 

The problem is most acute in low- and middle-income countries, where oversight is often minimal or non-existent. While the prevalence in developed markets is likely below 1%, it is estimated that up to and more than 15% of all drugs sold in developing countries constitute a threat to patients. But in high-income countries too, the public is at risk from online purchases from illegitimate vendors.