Medicines are meant to treat illness, manage health conditions and protect our wellbeing. But counterfeit, substandard or improperly stored medicines can pose serious health risks. A medicine that looks convincing on the outside may not necessarily contain the correct ingredients, strength or quality.
For consumers, checking a medicine before purchasing it is an important safety step. This becomes particularly relevant when buying medicines online, from unfamiliar sellers or from sources that offer unusually large discounts.
While appearance alone cannot prove that a medicine is genuine, there are several practical checks that can help you identify warning signs. Before buying your next medicine, ask these six questions.
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1. Is The Packaging Properly Sealed And Printed
Start by examining the outer packaging carefully. Genuine medicines should generally have clear, professionally printed packaging with important information such as the product name, strength, dosage form, batch or lot number, manufacturing details, expiry date and other required information.
Look for spelling mistakes, unusual fonts, poor-quality printing, damaged seals, mismatched labels or information that appears to have been altered. Be particularly cautious if the packaging looks significantly different from what you have previously received for the same medicine.
However, packaging alone is not proof of authenticity because counterfeit products can be designed to look very similar to genuine ones.
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2. Can You Clearly See The Batch Number And Expiry Date
The batch number and expiry date are important details to check before purchasing a medicine. Make sure they are clearly visible and not suspiciously obscured, scratched out or replaced.
If the information on the outer box does not match the information on the blister strip, bottle or other immediate packaging, do not use the medicine until the discrepancy has been clarified by a qualified pharmacist or the manufacturer.
Never knowingly purchase or use a medicine that has expired. Expired medicines may not work as intended and, depending on the product, may pose additional risks.
3. Is There A Way To Verify The Product
Some medicines may carry authentication or traceability features, such as a barcode or QR code, depending on the product and applicable regulations. In India, certain pharmaceutical products have been subject to QR-code requirements intended to help with authentication and traceability.
If a medicine carries an authentication feature, follow the manufacturer's official instructions for checking it. Do not assume that simply scanning any QR code proves that a product is genuine.
If the verification system produces an error, gives unexpected information or cannot confirm the product, contact the manufacturer or pharmacist before taking the medicine.
4. Are You Buying It From A Reliable Seller
Where you purchase medicine matters. Whenever possible, obtain medicines from a licensed pharmacy or a legitimate, regulated online pharmacy.
Be cautious about websites, social media accounts or individuals selling prescription medicines without appropriate requirements. An unusually low price can also be a warning sign, especially when the seller cannot explain the product's source.
For prescription medicines, follow the advice of your doctor and pharmacist rather than purchasing unfamiliar alternatives simply because they are cheaper.
A reputable seller should be able to provide appropriate information about the medicine and its source.
5. Does The Medicine Look Or Smell Different
Changes in the medicine itself can sometimes indicate a problem. Depending on the product, warning signs may include unusual colour, shape, texture, smell, broken tablets, damaged capsules, leaking bottles or altered liquid appearance.
That said, medicines can sometimes look different because manufacturers change packaging, formulations or suppliers. Therefore, an unusual appearance does not automatically mean a medicine is counterfeit.
If something looks significantly different from what you were prescribed or previously used, do not guess. Ask a pharmacist or contact the manufacturer for clarification.
6. Can The Manufacturer Or Pharmacist Confirm It
When in doubt, ask. The packaging should normally provide information that allows consumers to identify the manufacturer or marketing company. Contact the company's official customer-support channel if you suspect a product may not be genuine.
A pharmacist can also help you compare the medicine, packaging, dosage and other identifying information.
If you believe you have received a counterfeit or suspicious medicine, avoid taking further doses until you receive appropriate professional guidance. Keep the packaging, receipt and medicine if possible, as these may help the pharmacist, manufacturer or relevant authorities investigate the concern.
What To Do If You Suspect A Fake Medicine
Do not rely on online photographs or social media posts to determine whether a medicine is genuine. If you suspect a product is counterfeit, stop and seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional.
Do not throw away the packaging immediately if it may be needed for verification or reporting. Record where and when you purchased the medicine and keep your receipt if available.
If you experience an unexpected reaction after taking a medicine, seek medical attention promptly. Do not assume that the reaction is simply a side effect or that the medicine is fake without professional assessment.
A Few Minutes Of Checking Can Protect Your Health
Checking medicine authenticity should become part of your regular purchasing routine. Examine the packaging, confirm the batch and expiry information, use official verification methods where available, choose reliable sellers and ask a pharmacist whenever something seems unusual.
Most importantly, never purchase prescription medicines from questionable sources simply because they promise dramatic discounts or easy access. Your health is not an area where authenticity should be compromised.
If you are unsure about a medicine's identity, quality or safety, the safest approach is to pause and consult a qualified pharmacist, doctor or the medicine manufacturer before using it.
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