Illegal drugs on the net: 378,109 purchases endanger your health!

Illegal drugs on the net: 378,109 purchases endanger your health!

illegal trade practices with fake medication accept worrying proportions in Austria. In 2024, incredible 378.109 fake and illegal medication were confiscated by customs in Austria, as reported Kosmo . This number comes from the Product Pirate report of the Federal Ministry of Finance and illustrates the urgency with which the topic must be addressed.

Alexander Herzog, General Secretary of the Association of the Pharmaceutical Industry Austria (pharmig), expresses severe concerns about illegal trade. He warns that fake medicines can represent considerable health risks and are often of poor quality, contaminated or incorrectly dosed. In the worst case, such products can even be life -threatening.

distribution channels and risks

fake medication are mainly sold through dubious internet platforms that often leave a serious impression. Römer reported that the sale of prescription drugs via the Internet in Austria is subject to strict legal restrictions and is expressly banned. Over -the -counter medicines, on the other hand, can be bought online, but only by certified internet pharmacies. Consumers should therefore find out exactly before the purchase and consult the directory of certified pharmacies on the website of the Federal Office for Healthcare (BASG).

The most common fake medication ensured by the customs authorities are:

• potency
• fertility -promoting products
• medication for nausea and vomiting
• sleeping and sedative
• pain and inflammatory preparations

Unrestrained access to fake medication can have serious consequences for consumers. The European Consumer Center (EVZ) urgently warns of the dangers of such online purchases. In addition, careless purchases are not only harmful to health, but can also result in criminal consequences for consumers.

safety precautions when buying online

For a safe online purchase, consumers should consider some important information. Medicines may only be ordered by pharmacies based in Austria or the European Economic Area (EEA). The medication must be over -the -counter and approved in Austria. The amount is limited to a maximum of three packs per medication. Purchasing from third countries, such as the USA or China, is strictly prohibited.

Important tips for avoiding fake shops:

• Checking the imprint and payment methods
• Search for reports or warnings from consumer organizations
• Payment by credit card or PayPal is recommended

In order to minimize the risk of falling into the trap of fake shops, consumers should pay attention to signs such as a limited offer or wording such as "100%guarantee of activity". The safest way to obtain medication remains to be purchased via public pharmacies or certified web shops by Austrian pharmacies. The European consumer center offers comprehensive information and recommendations.