SUPPLIES of counterfeit and illicit medicines have been seized at the Australian border as part of an international crackdown involving the Australian Border Force (ABF), the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA).
Now in its 10th year, Operation Pangea, led by INTERPOL in cooperation with the World Customs Organization, brings together customs, health and law enforcement agencies from over 100 countries.
During the week of 12-19 Sep, ABF officers working in international mail facilities around Australia, detected and seized 48 consignments, predominantly containing erectile dysfunction pills, cancer medication and nutritional supplements.
Federal Health Department deputy secretary, Professor John Skerritt, said the operation served as a timely reminder to consumers about the dangers of obtaining therapeutic goods from unknown or unapproved sources.
"These products could be counterfeit and not assessed for safety, quality and performance," Skerritt said.
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 28 Sep 17
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