Counterfeit medications
Counterfeit medications
Counterfeit medications (pronunciation: /ˈkaʊntərˌfɛt mɛdɪˈkeɪʃənz/) are fake pharmaceutical products that are designed to mimic the appearance and packaging of legitimate medications. They are often produced and distributed without the authorization of the original manufacturer, and may contain incorrect or harmful ingredients.
Etymology
The term "counterfeit" originates from the Old French word 'contrefait', which means 'made in opposition' or 'imitated'. The term "medication" comes from the Latin 'medicatio', meaning 'healing'.
Definition
Counterfeit medications are typically defined as pharmaceutical products which are produced and distributed with a false representation of their identity, source, or both. This can include products without active ingredients, with incorrect quantities of active ingredients, with the wrong ingredients, or with fake packaging.
Risks
The risks associated with counterfeit medications are numerous and can be severe. These can include adverse reactions, ineffective treatment, and even death. Counterfeit medications can also contribute to the development of drug-resistant strains of diseases.
Prevention
Prevention of counterfeit medications involves a combination of regulatory oversight, law enforcement, and public awareness. This includes the work of organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), as well as national and international law enforcement agencies.
Related terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Counterfeit medications
- Wikipedia's article - Counterfeit medications
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