Beware of Counterfeit Drugs-Cosmetics Sold Online

By Aditya E.S. Wicaksono Jakarta (Antara) - Head of Drugs and Food Monitoring Agency (BPOM) Roy Sparingga cautioned the society to be wary of the dangers of illegal drugs and cosmetic products being sold online or on websites on the internet. On Wednesday, Roy Sparingga pointed out that the drugs and cosmetic products sold online may not have the relevant permit issued by the BPOM and pose a high risk to the consumers. "Don't buy (drugs and cosmetics) online. It's very dangerous. Buy them in legal places," Roy Sparingga emphasized. Counterfeit drugs often contain dubious and harmful substances, which can even lead to death in extreme cases. The illegal drugs and cosmetics are similar in appearance to the original ones, but are comparatively less expensive and may cause several negative effects on the health of its users if used or consumed on a long-term basis. They may only contain flour, placebo, or sub-standard substances, despite the low manufacturing sanitation procedure, Sparingga noted. The BPOM cooperated with the Interpol during the Pangea Operation on June 18-25 2013, wherein they managed to seize illegal and counterfeit drugs valued at Rp5.6 billion or about US$466 thousand from the 20 outlets that were raided. Legal action has taken against 14 of the 20 outlets. The agency also managed to shut down 129 online shops selling illegal drugs and cosmetics. (*)