FDA Warns Public on Dangers of Fake Biogesic Paracetamol

(SPOT.ph) Counterfeit paracetamol tablets are popping up everywhere, with trusted brands like Biogesic not exempt from these imitations. This situation has prompted the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Philippines to warn consumers.

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The FDA has issued a stern warning about counterfeit Biogesic 500mg tablets, highlighting the dangers they pose. “All healthcare professionals and the general public are hereby warned as to the availability of this counterfeit drug product in the market which pose potential danger or injury to consumers,” the FDA's advisory stresses.

According to the FDA, drug outlets have been directed to refrain from selling or dispensing any fake medicines. Meanwhile, local government units and law enforcement agencies shall prevent the distribution of these counterfeit drug products within their jurisdictions.

The importation or sale of counterfeit medicine is a clear violation of Republic Act 9711, known as the Food and Drug Administration Act, and RA 8203, the Special Law on Counterfeit Drugs. Penalties include hefty fines and up to 20 years of prison sentence.

How to Spot Fake Biogesic Tablets

Unilab released a guideline on social media to help consumers distinguish between fake and genuine Biogesic paracetamol:

The knock-offs, posing as the popular over-the-counter fever remedy, differ noticeably from the genuine product in color, lot number, capsule design, knurling, and print appearance. You can report any counterfeit medicine you have acquired to Unilab via their email or hotline.

This is your friendly reminder to stick to trusted drugstores and retailers when stocking up on healthcare products. After all, when it comes to your health, Biogesic says it best—“Ingat!”.

Also read: Here Are the Basic Medicines You Should Have at Home, According to a Doctor