The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) actively monitors the availability of medicines being offered on-line using specialist equipment and resources focused on identifying websites operating within the United Kingdom. Robust action is taken when illegal activity is detected.
Several initiatives are underway to communicate risks posed by on-line supply of medicines to consumers and potential customers, both by MHRA acting as regulator, or in conjunction with relevant organisations such as the Royal Pharmaceutical Society. These include national advertising campaigns with Industry and patient groups to raise awareness and specific articles targeting magazines focussing on slimming and men's health issues. Internet auction sites are also used as a means of communicating perceived risk.
Information on buying medicines on line is also available through the MHRA website at:
www.mhra.gov.uk/Safetyinformation/Generalsafetyinformationandadvice/Adviceandinformationforconsumers/BuyingmedicinesovertheInternet/CON019610