CDC warns of fentanyl risk at online pharmacies: 3 notes

The CDC has issued a warning regarding the dangers of ordering medications from online pharmacies, highlighting the significant risks of fentanyl exposure. 

Here are three key notes from their advisory: 

  1. On Sept. 30, the U.S. Department of Justice indicted 18  individuals, accusing them of running illegal online pharmacies that advertise, sell, manufacture and ship millions of unregulated counterfeit prescription pills. The pills frequently contain fentanyl and methamphetamine, putting individuals at risk for overdose.
     
  2. Consumers are advised to be cautious of online pharmacies that do not require a doctor's prescription, are not U.S. state-licensed or offer prices that seem too good to be true. The FDA also noted that nearly 95% of websites selling prescription drugs online operate illegally, often providing unapproved or unsafe medications. 

  3. Individuals are also advised to verify the licensing of online pharmacies and avoid consuming medications from unlicensed sources. It is also recommended to keep naloxone on hand for reversing potential opioid overdoses and to seek immediate help in case of a suspected poisoning.

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