Key Summary
- GPhC wants people to make sure any prescription medicines they get online are dispensed from a pharmacy registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council
- Anyone using illegal websites is taking a 'huge risk' with their health
- GPhC works closely with the MHRA, the regulator responsible for tackling the illegal online trade of medicines
The General Pharmaceutical Council has advised customers that when buying medicines online, they should ensure that the pharmacies are registered with the council.
Chief executive Duncan Rudkin expressed concern over the recent reports of thousands of illegal websites falsely claiming to be pharmacies and selling medicines to people without a consultation or a prescription.
He also pointed out that people are approaching illegal online sellers to buy weight management medicines at a lower cost, following recent announcements of price rises and reports of stock shortages.
“We would urge people to make sure any prescription medicines they get online are dispensed from a pharmacy registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council. You can check if a pharmacy is registered with us by searching our registers on our website," he said.
He warned that anyone using illegal websites is taking a 'huge risk' with their health, as they may receive counterfeit medicines that contain dangerous ingredients.
He said the GPhC works closely with the MHRA, the regulator responsible for tackling the illegal online trade of medicines.
"The MHRA removes hundreds of illegal websites each year, and has recently launched two new tools to help the public check if a website is known to be selling medicines illegally and is not recommended, and for people to report suspicious online sellers of medicines or medical devices,” Rudkin said.
GPhC chair Gisela Abbam said, “Patient safety is the top priority for the Council. That’s why we are working closely with other regulators, including the MHRA, to raise awareness among the public of the risks of buying medicines from illegal online sources.
“Checking an online pharmacy is registered with the GPhC only takes a few minutes, and will help make sure people get advice and treatment that is right for them and won’t cause them harm,” she added.
