By JOHN BREAUX

The production and sale of counterfeit prescription drugs is another example of American consumers being deceived when they are most vulnerable. People seeking relief and treatment for their ailments at a lower price unknowingly purchase counterfeit medications, jeopardizing their own health and well-being.

Counterfeit medicines comprise more than 7 percent of the world market. These include pharmaceuticals that are improperly stored or transported, or contain nothing but inactive ingredients. These counterfeit medications are created in settings ranging from criminal’s own homes to sophisticated labs.

Our Senate Aging Committee has held dozens of prescription drugs. We have heard countless stories of individuals and families devastated by the financial burdens of treating a chronic illness. A sad result of the prescription drug dilemma is that more Americans are turning to unconventional drug distributors, in attempts to get the medicines they need at a cost they can afford. The consequence, of course, is these low-cost medicines, many of which are produced overseas, often do not work, leaving millions at risk for serious health problems.

Pharmaceuticals produced in the United States are monitored by a robust system of checks involving the Food and Drug Administration, manufacturers, wholesalers and health care providers. These groups work together to provide a cloak of protection that is shed when a consumer chooses to drive to neighboring Canada or Mexico, or to log onto an unaccredited internet site to purchase a medication. We must find better ways to prevent people from risking their medical treatment or recovery to save money.

I am committed to finding a way to stop this public health crisis in its

tracks. It is clear than we cannot look abroad for an answer to our own nation’s prescription drug dilemma. We in the Congress need to do more to provide a meaningful, affordable prescription drug plan for all Americans, before our citizens are forced to jeopardize their lives.

The following is a list of tips you can follow to ensure your medications are safe and effective:
1. Use caution when purchasing drugs online. Reputable online pharmacies will have a seal of approval called the Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Site, provided by the Association of Boards of Pharmacy in the United States. Do not purchase medications from unlicensed online distributors or those who will sell medications without a prescription.
2. Be mindful of appearance. Closely examine the packaging and lot numbers of prescription drugs, and be alert of any changes from one prescriptions to the next.
3. Ask questions. Consult your pharmacist or physician if your prescription drug looks suspicious or if you are purchasing the drug from an unconventional source, such as online.
5. Be wary of product promotions. Cost reductions and other “special deals” may be associated with counterfeit product promotion.
6. Monitor your progress. Alert your pharmacist and physician immediately if your medication causes adverse side effects or if your condition does not improve.

JOHN BREAUX represents Louisiana in the United States Senate.