Discover your next big idea for life sciences at PACK EXPO Las Vegas
Experience a breakthrough in life sciences packaging—explore solutions from 2,300 suppliers spanning all industries, all in one place this September

FDA spokesperson discusses ongoing anti-counterfeiting efforts

In an exclusive interview with Healthcare Packaging, FDA spokesperson Sarah Clark-Lynn addresses the role of supply chain shareholders and packaging in anti-counterfeiting efforts.

MHRA Pangea 2
MHRA Pangea 2

In October, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, in partnership with international regulatory regulatory and law enforcement agencies, took action against more than 4,100 Internet pharmacies that illegally sold potentially dangerous, unapproved drugs to consumers.

Here’s what FDA spokesperson Sarah Clark-Lynn had to say about counterfeiting and the role of packaging in anti-counterfeiting efforts:

HCP: How significant is this action with regard to pharmaceutical counterfeiting? Is this the first time such a broad-based global effort has resulted in such action? Could this beginning of further global actions?

Clark-Lynn: Consumers in the U.S. and around the world face a real threat from Internet pharmacies that illegally sell potentially dangerous medicines. FDA is committed to protecting consumers from the risks these Web sites present and helping them be more aware of the steps they can take to protect themselves.

During Operation Pangea V, a cooperative effort led by Interpol, FDA worked with domestic and international law enforcement and regulatory agencies to combat online sales and distribution of counterfeit and illegal medical products. The goal of Operation Pangea was to identify the producers and distributors of counterfeit or otherwise illegal medical products and take enforcement action to remove these products from the supply chain. These actions include civil and criminal charges, seizure of illegal products, and removal of offending Web sites.

FDA targeted Web sites illegally selling unapproved and potentially dangerous medicines that can be detrimental to public health, as some of these products should only be taken under the supervision of an authorized health care practitioner or contained active ingredients that were withdrawn from U.S. market due to safety issues. FDA sent Warning Letters to the operators of more than 4,100 Web sites and continues to work with foreign counterparts to address the remaining Web sites that continue to offer unapproved or misbranded prescription medicines to U.S. consumers.

Pharmaceutical Innovations Report
Discover the latest breakthrough packaging technologies shaping the pharmaceutical sector. This report dives into cutting-edge innovations, from smart containers that enhance patient safety to eco-friendly materials poised to transform the industry’s sustainability practices. All from PACK EXPO. Learn how forward-thinking strategies are driving efficiency and redefining what’s possible in pharma packaging.
Learn More
Pharmaceutical Innovations Report
List: Digitalization Companies From PACK EXPO
Looking for CPG-focused digital transformation solutions? Download our editor-curated list from PACK EXPO featuring top companies offering warehouse management, ERP, digital twin, and MES software with supply chain visibility and analytics capabilities—all tailored specifically for CPG operations.
Download Now
List: Digitalization Companies From PACK EXPO