Real danger

These statistics from recent UK surveys show that more and more people are putting themselves in danger from buying fake pills - it's estimated that around 50 per cent of medicines sold without a prescription through unregulated websites are counterfeit. People buy medicines in this way because they think they are getting cheaper drugs, faster delivery, a better choice - in fact they're taking a real gamble with their health. Counterfeit medicines can be dangerous. Fake pills could make you very ill.

It's not just drugs for weight loss or erectile dysfunction (ED) that are being faked. Counterfeiters are now targeting lifesaving medicines for conditions such as cancer and heart problems.

The best way to protect yourself from counterfeit medicines is to only get your medicines from a reliable, regulated source. You should also make sure that you have the right treatment for the right condition by seeking advice from a healthcare professional. Buying prescription-only medicine without having seen a healthcare professional means you may not have a proper diagnosis of your problem.

Find out how to get real advice and guidance online and report concerns about medicine.