Consumers have lots of choices for buying prescription drugs. But beware – counterfeit drugs are out there and increasingly infiltrating the market!

You might lose money by purchasing ineffective drugs. Or even worse, you could be seriously harmed by taking fake medication or not getting the benefits from the medicines you need.

Pay attention to packaging. Check for altered or unsealed containers, or changes in the packaging or label.

Know your medications. If you know the size, shape, color, taste, and side effects of the prescriptions you take, you will more easily identify possible counterfeits.

If you believe you have bought a counterfeit drug:

• ask your doctor for medical advice if you have taken drugs you suspect are counterfeit
• Contact the pharmacist who sold you the medication
• Report your suspicions to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) - Medwatch program at 1-800-332-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. You can report a counterfeit drug that you bought on the Internet as well.