Marketplace Disgrace
In recent years, health officials have notified consumers about the existence of counterfeit Botox in the U.S. market. Issuing a statement on the matter, the FDA sent letters to some 230 doctors alerting them that they may be selling this illegal version from foreign suppliers. Fake Botox is a real threat.
The statement went on to say that the foreign supplier of the knock-off does not have the authorization to bring or distribute their product here in the United States. Additionally, this fake Botox is considered dangerous and should not be administered to patients.
Health Officials have detailed that consumers should be aware of these signs:
– the lot number is missing from the vial and carton
– no expiration date on the carton
– “Botulinum Toxin Type A” displayed as active ingredient instead of “OnabotulinumtoxinA”
The manufacturer, Allergan, has issued a statement telling people to avoid these counterfeit versions of the popular Botox. Additionally, the FDA said that health providers should contact Allergan to ensure their disturber is truly sanctioned to distribute Botox. Numerous unlicensed distributors have flooded the market with this fake Botox. Allergan has warned doctors from using any distributor who advertises their products at a price less than that offered by the company or its official distributors.
Medical Professionals Beware
The FDA and the manufacturer of Botox are concerned about this fraudulent product being administered to patients. To arm medical professionals and patients with information, Allergan stresses that there are clear indications that the product is from official the official manufacturer:
– Beneath the copyright information on the carton, you will find a license number
– On the vial, you’ll find a rainbow holographic film with the name Allergan
If any of these are missing, do not use this product. There are known risks involved with any clinical procedure. Adding a counterfeit product to that risk is just reckless. Suppliers and distributors of fraudulent Botox have committed federal criminal offenses. The same goes for any doctor who administers it. Exposing patients to the unknown effects of an unregulated medical product can end in the medical board removing the doctor’s license and possibly lead to serving prison time.
Due to the serious consequences at stake, medical professionals should make it a priority to verify that the Botox they are administering is the real deal. Anyone who believes they may have received fake Botox is encouraged to contact the FDA immediately and report the incident.
The Best Defense, Training
The best defense against the potential harm caused by a fraudulent product is training. Those working at a medical practice, with the right training can be ready to spot the signs of counterfeit items. When doctors and nurses stay alert and vigilant, they can be the last line of defense protecting patients.
ESI offers medical professionals the opportunity to obtain certification in a series of medical esthetic techniques through intensive hands-on workshops and has done so since 1997. Our students become proficient in procedures including Botulinum Toxin A (Botox).
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