Health is the most important part of any person, although it is also one of the most regulated areas. In fact, there are some pharmacies that were reported because they sell illegal medications. Below we share the complete information that you should know.
In the first instance, drug development often requires decades of research. In addition, million-dollar investments are necessary to achieve at least one molecule that can be used. Unfortunately, in recent years there has been an increase in counterfeiting of health-related supplies.
What pharmacies sell illegal medications in Mexico?
From the above, the Federal Commission for the Protection Against Health Risks (Cofepris) announced an update to its list of drug distributors that do not comply with health regulations and incorporated seven companies.
- Farm-Innova Pharmaceutical Distributions and Janeth Torres Morales, located in Jalisco.
- Pharmacists Globmed and Ángel Daniel Correa Betancourt/Bodega, with operations in Mexico City.
- Efarma Medical Center, Special Education and Marketing of Specialized Drugs, in the State of Mexico.
- Garken Medical, in Morelos.
- Gamalop International Pharmaceutical Group, based in Puebla.
According to the authorities, of the seven irregular distributors there are five who had a Operation Notice; However, upon carrying out verification visits to the indicated addresses, it was identified that they were not warehouses but rather residential homes. In some cases, the addresses provided turned out to be non-existent.
Main failures committed by pharmacies
In the case of Globmed Pharmacists, access to the verification personnel was prohibited, so Cofepris is unaware of the sanitary conditions in said warehouse. In addition, there is a complaint filed with this health authority for marketing allegedly counterfeit products.
It should be noted that the Gamalop International Pharmaceutical Group markets the Dapoza medical supply, which does not have a health registry in Mexico, so the authenticity of the active ingredient, its safety and effectiveness are unknown. Furthermore, this distributor lacks an operating warning.
Having said all the above, Cofepris urges buyers of medicines and users of health supplies to avoid purchasing drugs in the indicated establishments. Likewise, it is recommended to verify that distributors have a health manager and legal documentation that guarantees the safety and quality of the products, such as an operating notice and health license.
In sum, up to now, they have identified 129 pharmacies that sell illegal medications in the country. The complete list can be consult at this link.
Where are counterfeit and illegal medicines offered in Mexico?
On the other hand, another problem is that the illegal trade of medicines also occurs through social networks and in street stalls. According to a Cofepris investigation published in 2021, five flea markets were identified that are the ones that register the greatest amount of illegal drugs.
- The Sanctuary (Guadalajara).
- Tepito (Mexico City).
- The markets of Tláhuac (Mexico City).
- The San Felipe de Jesús flea market (Mexico City).
- El Salado (Mexicali).
Also read:
World Diabetes Day: Why is November 14 commemorated?
ENARM 2023: These study courses took the 2 best scores
Influencer doctor accused of digital violence defends himself against UNAM