Authorities warn of surge in illegal online medicine sales

Dutch and European authorities are seeing a sharp increase in the illegal online sale of medicines. Medicines for weight loss and diabetes have become particularly popular recently. However, those who buy them through websites or social media risk being scammed and may also suffer health damage. “They may not contain the promised active ingredient at all, but could contain harmful amounts of other substances,” warned the European Medicines Agency (EMA).

The Dutch Health and Youth Care Inspectorate (IGJ) and the Medicines Evaluation Board (CBG) also warn of serious health risks. Active ingredients in illegally sold medicines may be present in doses that are too high or too low, as there is no regulatory oversight. “It is unknown whether they are genuine and safe,” the authorities emphasize.

Sites selling illegal medication sometimes appear professional. Producers often use health authority logos to inspire trust. The pills themselves are frequently “almost indistinguishable from the real thing,” said IGJ Chief Inspector Henk de Groot. “But you are playing with your life.”

The dangers of illegal medication became apparent in March of this year, when a 30-year-old man from Amsterdam died after taking counterfeit oxycodone. The pills did not contain the painkiller oxycodone but the extremely potent isotonitazepyne, a substance found in no legal medicine and nearly impossible to dose safely.

According to the IGJ, daily reports are now coming in about websites, advertisements, and social media accounts that promote medicines illegally. In 2024, the number of reports doubled to around 200, and this year the authorities are seeing a further increase.

In addition to weight-loss drugs, these often involve painkillers, erectile dysfunction drugs, and doping substances. The inspectorate regularly takes websites offline, seizes shipments, and issues fines, but the supply remains large, with many sellers operating from abroad.

The authorities’ advice is simple: “If you have health complaints, go to your general practitioner, and for prescription medicines, go to your own pharmacy.”

Anyone wishing to report illegal offers can do so through the National Healthcare Reporting Center of the inspectorate. The website www.aanbiedersmedicijnen.nl lists providers that are considered reliable.