Illegal medicines, such as falsified medicines, are a global problem, and therefore also in the Netherlands. Laws, regulations and international cooperation with other countries seek to limit the scale of the problem. RIVM investigates (suspected) illegal medicines in the lab and participates in international working groups.
Illegal medicines, such as falsified medicines, are a global problem, also in the Netherlands. Laws, regulations and international cooperation with other countries seek to limit the scale of the problem. RIVM investigates (suspected) illegal medicines in the lab and participates in international working groups.
A falsified medicinal product is a medicinal product that intentionally provides incorrect information (Article 1 of the Medicines Act). For example, about its identity (packaging, labelling, name or composition), origin (manufacturer, country of production, country of origin or marketing authorization holder) or history (registries or logs regarding its whereabouts).
Who does what
In the Netherlands and Europe, the MEB (Medicines Evaluation Board) and the EMA (European Medicines Agency) issue the marketing authorisations for medicines. Falsified medicines are often produced or imported illegally and are traded without the intervention of doctors and pharmacies. The IGJ (Health and Youth Care Inspectorate) may confiscate counterfeit products. RIVM investigates suspected pharmaceuticals in the lab. In addition, the RIVM participates in the following international working groups where knowledge and experience about illegal medicines are shared:
- Committee of Experts on Minimising Public Health Risks Posed by Falsification of Medical Products and Similar Crimes (CD-P-PH/CMED)
- Falsified Medicines Working Group van de Official Medicines Control Laboratories
- International Laboratory Forum on Counterfeit Medicines (ILFCM)
- WHO Member State mechanism on substandard and falsified medical products
Health risks
There are several risks associated with the use of falsified medicines. Some products might contain too much or too little of the active substances. Too little active substance (underdose) can cause a product to work less effectively or not work at all. On a larger scale, this can cause antibiotic resistance. An overdose (too much of an active substance) increases the likelihood of side effects. On occasion, active substances can be replaced by other, cheaper active substances that work differently. Furthermore, one is not certain whether products contain contaminants or whether they are sterile. It can also happen that the products do not contain what is stated on the packaging. It is also dangerous to take any medicines without first consulting a doctor or a pharmacist.
Report falsified medicines
You can report a potential falsified medicinal products at:
• Health Care and Youth Inspectorate
• Centre for Side effects Lareb
• National Reporting Point for Care
• Netherland’s Food and Goods Authority (NVWA)
• National Doping Authority
• National Poison Information Centre
• RIVM