Chinese Gangs “Behind Fake Drugs”

Criminal Chinese gangs are manufacturing counterfeit drugs on an industrial scale, according to reports from BBC News. The fake drugs are highly sophisticated and are sold throughout Asia, Africa and even Europe. “International health officials warn that anti-malarial drugs are just the tip of the iceberg,” reports BBC News. “There is also growing concern about fake antibiotics and fake anti-retrovirals used to treat HIV/Aids, and even fake versions of the drugs used to treat avian flu.” With millions searching for hope and cures, counterfeiters earn big profits. Another BBC report notes that the UN International Narcotics Control Board warns that up to 50 percent of prescription medication in developing nations is counterfeit – and can pose lethal consequences for unsuspecting patients and communities that expect eradication of disease. – YaleGlobal