During 2021 the most significant categories of illegal products detained included sedatives (46pc), anabolic steroids (13pc), analgesics (10pc) and erectile dysfunction medicines (6pc). Grainne Power, Director of Compliance with the HPRA said the high number of illicit medicines detected in 2021 is very concerning and when combined with the 2020 figures means that over 3.2 million units were detained over a two-year period. “It’s so important that members of the public are aware of the health risks associated with buying prescription only products from unverified and unregulated sources. We know that those who seek to profit from illegal medicines have little regard for the health of the end users they are supplying. It also co-operates and shares intelligence with other regulatory and law enforcement agencies worldwide to prevent the illegal manufacture, importation and distribution of medicines, medical devices, and cosmetics.

Source: Irish Independent February 25, 2022 07:57 UTC