What are adulterated medicinal products and their consequences to public health?

Besides OTC medicines, don’t forget we also have traditional and complementary medicines known as TCM. TCM is one of the oldest forms of healthcare in the world and also being incorporated by many as part of a self-care routine. Studies have shown that many people prefer TCM because they perceive TCM products have fewer side effects than modern medicines. In many countries, approved TCM products by local regulatory agencies are also important to maintain health.

In recent years however, news on adulterated TCM products with modern medicines are worrying. Adulteration of TCM products happens when the products are incorporated with scheduled medicines where the most common are NSAIDs and steroids. These products are usually unregistered or not approved by the local regulatory agencies. These adulterated products pose a significant threat to public health with harmful effects such as severe allergic reactions and kidney injury.

Promoting safe self-care is therefore paramount because it shows the public’s awareness to get access to medicines and maybe to have a fast effect as well. Asking your local pharmacist is the best way to clarify any products which include TCM products.