Illegal products are out there By: Betsy Delomba
July 27, 2011

This past week there was an article about how the British Veterinary Association is planning to impose more regulations on internet pharmacies. This is a result of the conviction of 13 people for smuggling veterinary medicines into the country.

Counterfeit, tainted and unauthorized medications are in the US as well. I spoke to a veterinarian in Texas who just encountered such a problem. Last year, he had prescribed Revolution® for 2 dogs in the same family. They left the hospital without taking the medication and when they came back this year, both dogs were heartworm positive. Upon inquiry, the client admitted to buying "Revolution" from a website that shipped product from Australia (for $5.99 shipping!), and it was cheaper for "the same thing".  Unfortunately, the pets and their owners will now pay the price for trying to save a buck.

Should you encounter a situation like this, it is important to report it to a few groups. In this case, a report was filed with the Texas State board of pharmacy, the FDA and Pfizer's Veterinary Medical Investigations and Product Support group.  For counterfeit topical paraciticides, the EPA should be notified.

We really don't know the extent of the problem because it is under reported, but it is clear that when the legitimate supply chain is compromised, animal health and our profession suffers.