30 January 2009
Hundreds of people across Sutton, Merton and Surrey could be playing Russian roulette with their health by buying prescription drugs from the web, according to the Chief Pharmacist at Epsom and St Helier hospitals, Anne Davies.
Anne, who is the Trust's top medicine's expert, said: "Selling medicine over the internet is big business now, but there are a number of dangers associated with buying drugs online.
"Some websites are legitimate pharmacies but a number of sites offering medicines are run by suppliers who have no professional qualifications or expertise. Often, medicine from these sites turns out to be substandard, unapproved or even fake."
Anne added: "Counterfeit medicines often contain chemicals they shouldn't. At best they are useless, at worst they could be lethal. We'd advise anyone considering purchasing medicine online - whether it's for medical purposes such as pain relief, or a lifestyle choice such as losing weight - to speak to a registered pharmacist.
"The quality of the medication is not the only problem. There are risks if you take a drug you've bought from the web, but haven't told your doctor or pharmacist about.
"Different medications can interact with each other, sometimes with life threatening consequences. People need to be extremely careful that they don't mix medications without getting the advice of their GP or a pharmacist first," said Anne.
Anne advises people to always talk to a pharmacist. "Pharmacists are experts in medicines, can offer impartial advice and lawfully and safely supply registered medicines over the internet too."
Earlier this year, the Royal Pharmaceutical Society for Great Britain issued a new logo to help people check the legitimacy of pharmacies who sell drugs over the internet.
Anne said: "People should make sure the website carries the logo, or better still talk to your pharmacist about all your options. Purchasing prescription medicines on the web might give you convenience and anonymity, but it could be damaging your health."
