US FDA warns over fake drugs bought in Mexico

The US Food and Drug Administration has warned the public aboutcounterfeit versions of Merck & Co's cholesterol- lowerer Zocor (simvastatin) and the muscle relaxant carisoprodol that were recently imported from Mexico by individual Americans.

Tests indicate that the counterfeit Zocor contained no active ingredient, while the fake carisoprodol differed in potency when compared to the authentic product. The fake drugs were reportedly purchased at Mexican border town pharmacies and sold under the names Zocor, 40/mg, (lot no K9784, expiration date November 2004), and Carisoprodol, 350/mg, (lot no 68348A).

Patients who rely on these fake drugs could develop serious health risks (with the counterfeit Zocor) or have insufficient pain relief (with the fake carisoprodol), says the FDA, which adds that it is investigating the matter and working with the Mexican authorities to ensure that further sale and importation of these products is halted.