Recognizing Counterfeit Veterinary Medications
There are a lot of pet products out there, some legitimate, some not. These days, ads on websites and social media offer medications that claim to do amazing things for only a few dollars. Sounds like magic, right? Unfortunately, the magic trick that usually happens is that your money vanishes. At best, you bought a useless product, and at worst the miracle cure promised is harmful or even deadly to your pet. The WHO says that up to 50% of medicines sold online are fake, and the most commonly counterfeited medicines are ones in high demand, like insulin, flea and heartworm medicines, and pain relievers. To keep you and your pet safe, we have some quick tips on things to look for before you buy medicines online:
- They don’t require a prescription
- Here in the U.S., it is illegal to sell heartworm medications, insulin, pain relievers, or antibiotics, some of the most counterfeited medications, without a prescription. If they say they don’t require a prescription, look out!
- The name of the product is misspelled, wrong, or doesn’t look like the picture on the manufacturer's website
- When in doubt, always check the manufacturer's website. If the product looks suspicious when you get it, don’t use it.
- The price is extremely low
- We all like to save money, but “too good to be true” is a real thing. The product could be ineffective, expired, or even dangerous.
- No company address, phone number, or pharmacist to answer questions
- Legitimate drug companies will have all of these things. If it seems like they’re hiding something, look for your medications elsewhere.
- The package looks damaged, instructions are missing or covered up, or the product is for another species (dog, cat, horse, human, etc.)
- Manufacturers and veterinarians will make sure you get a quality product that is right for your pet. If you have any questions about the suitability of your medication, ask your veterinarian.
Here at Amigo Animal Hospital, our entire team is committed to your pet’s health and wellness. We are happy to advise you by phone, email or text on your pet’s medication needs and answer any questions you may have. We provide medications, preventatives, diets, and supplements that are known to be effective at reasonable prices. If you have any questions, please contact us at (714) 894-5558.