We have taken decisive action against the issue of illegal online diabetes drug sellers — FDA

The Food and Drug Authority (FDA) has assured the public that it has taken firm actions to address the prevalence of unapproved online sales of diabetes drugs following concerns about their safety.

The FDA in a rejoinder dated February 20, to ModernGhana News’ article titled "FDA Must Crack Down on Diabetes Drug Sellers", outlined the steps it has taken to protect public health and combat unlawful online drug sales.

“The Authority has imposed substantial sanctions on online platforms like 36TY Courier Services and the Pillsen website, where our investigations led to the arrests and the seizure of unregistered drugs such a s Diaboost, alongside the removal of unapproved advertisements for the Bihecol Food Supplement, which made unsubstantiated health claims,” the rejoinder signed by its CEO Dr Delese A. Darko, said in part.

The authority further noted that advertisements for Bihecol Food Supplement that were not authorized and its unsubstantiated health claims were also pulled down.

The FDA also disclosed that anybody who imported unregistered diabetes medications was subject to legal repercussions, citing an October 30, 2023 case where Circuit Court 10 in Accra convicted and fined each offender GHC 90,000.

The FDA stressed its continued dedication to public safety, stating that it regularly inspects and works with relevant bodies such as the Ghana Police Service and the Pharmacy Council, to control the distribution and sale of authorized medications.

“To prevent potential health risks, we urge diabetic patients and the public to consult with licensed healthcare providers before starting or adding any new medications or supplements to their treatment regimen,” it said.