The Japanese government will step up efforts to fight fake medicines entering the country via foreign websites in 2014. The country’s Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare has been alerted to an increasing number of websites selling fake medication claiming to be based within Japan but operating oversees. The Ministry of Health is looking to partner with foreign governments in order to monitor internet drug sellers and warn the public of websites operating illegally. When medicine is sold online illegally, 50% of the pills are fake and all are produced outside of drug regulation standards with no guarantee of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP).
When buying medicine online, do not use a website that will sell prescription drugs without requiring a prescription. Check with the relevant national board of pharmacies to ensure the pharmacy is registered and be sure to cross-check listed addresses.
To read more about Japan’s plans to tackle counterfeit medicines online, visit Japan Daily Press.
