Fake drugs pose health threat

In order to control the problem of smuggling fake medicine, a joint effort between the authorities and the public is required. A legal framework must be set up to tackle the problem and the public must be made aware of the risks involved.

Minister of Health Dr Hanif Hassan stated recently that smuggling fake medicine adversely affects people's health. The World Health Organisation has warned that many people around the world are dying as a result of taking fake medicines. According to Dr Hassan, the authorities in the UAE are putting together new plans that will address all the problems faced by the pharmaceutical industry. A new Federal Pharmacy Law will soon be ratified that will impose substantial fines against importers of fake medicines. Last year, the National Committee to Combat Counterfeit Medicines was set up to tackle the problem.

Addressing the legal and administrative aspects in the fight against fake drugs is important as it ensures that the issue is tackled effectively. In addition, educating the public on how to recognise these drugs and report them to authorities will also help.