The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) took action last year against almost 10,000 websites that illegally distribute potentially unapproved prescription medicines that may be harmful to consumers.  Cooperating with international regulatory and law enforcement agencies, the FDA issued regulatory warnings, seized websites and confiscated $41,104,386 worth of medicines. Under the misleading banner of Canadian Pharmacies, many of the websites displayed fake licenses and falsely advertised items as being FDA approved.

Some of the same drugs sold on these illegal websites are readily available in your local pharmacy with or without a prescription from your doctor. In fact, many of the drugs your doctor tells you are helpful can be extremely dangerous.  We will examine some of these dangerous drugs.

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)

Although millions of people consume PPIs to combat acid reflux, PPIs block nutrient absorption, which can have a long-term damaging effect.  PPIs also decrease the production of good stomach acid, which leads to further health complications.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics are often overprescribed for conditions that do not respond to antibiotics, so now many superbugs (highly resistant infections) have evolved. Antibiotics can actually weaken a person’s natural immune system.

Statins

Once hailed as a miracle cure for high cholesterol and heart disease, statins are the top selling class of drugs. Unfortunately, they have serious side effects, including diabetes, liver disease and muscle atrophy.

Antipsychotics

Popularly known as Risperdal, Abilify and Seroquel, antipsychotics are prescribed for bipolar disorder, severe depression and schizophrenia. They increase blood sugar levels, promote weight gain and increase cholesterol levels. Antipsychotics also cause brain damage and greatly increase the danger of cardiovascular disease.

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

SSRIs have been around for years under labels such as Prozac and Zoloft.  These antidepressants have dangerous side effects such as suicidal tendencies, sexual dysfunction and gastrointestinal bleeding.

Opioid pain relievers

Prescription pain relievers such as Vicodin and OxyContin have caused more fatal overdoses than heroin and cocaine.

You can be sure that the pharmaceutical giants that produce these drugs have high-powered law firms protecting their interests. If you have suffered injuries because you consumed these drugs, it is important to schedule a free consultation with a seasoned products liability attorney.