Turkish Pharmacists Warn of Dangers in Online Drug Sales

Ankara, Turkey – The Turkish Pharmacists' Association (TEİS) has issued a critical warning regarding the proliferation of online sales for medicines and health products, highlighting the severe risks to public health. Nurten Saydan, the head of TEİS, emphasized during a press conference on Pharmacy Day that the uncontrolled sale of these items via the internet and social media is a growing menace.

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We know that these are counterfeit, spoiled, or, most importantly, have not been stored under appropriate conditions and have not been shipped with suitable temperature and humidity controls.

Saydan pointed out that numerous products, including medications, infant formulas, vitamins, supplements, steroids, and drugs for sexual performance or weight loss, are being sold on platforms with unclear origins. "We know that these are counterfeit, spoiled, or, most importantly, have not been stored under appropriate conditions and have not been shipped with suitable temperature and humidity controls," she stated. The association strongly advises citizens: "Never buy medicine from the internet." The unpredictable nature of counterfeit drugs means their effects when ingested are unknown and potentially dangerous.

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Never buy medicine from the internet.

TEİS stresses the rigorous standards maintained within the pharmaceutical supply chain in Turkey. From storage in warehouses to their final presentation in pharmacies, medicines are subject to strict temperature controls, including cold chain requirements where necessary. These conditions are continuously monitored. Similarly, products like vitamins and supplements are kept in climate-controlled environments with real-time monitoring. Pharmacies and distribution centers are regularly inspected by the Ministry of Health to ensure compliance.

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A very large portion of them are fake.

"A very large portion of them are fake," Saydan asserted, citing World Health Organization figures that suggest up to 80% of online health products may be counterfeit. This alarming statistic underscores the vital role of pharmacists. "Medicines are products too serious to be sold via cargo on the internet. Proposing or even considering this is unacceptable," Saydan concluded. The association reiterates that all health-related products should be obtained from pharmacies, where expert advice from pharmacists, who have undergone extensive scientific training, is available. This ensures both the authenticity and safety of the products consumed.

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Medicines are products too serious to be sold via cargo on the internet. Proposing or even considering this is unacceptable.