MFDA issues fresh warning after blacklisting 21 products, including weight-loss supplements and medications marketed for sexual dysfunction
MFDA has issued an urgent warning against the use of 21 specific medications following a surge in the unauthorized importation and sale of drugs through retail shops and online platforms. The authority emphasized that these products have not been verified for quality or safety and warned that legal action will be taken against those involved in such illicit trade. Consequently, the public is urged to refrain from using unregistered medications to avoid serious health risks.
Dispensing medication at a pharmacy.
The Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) has issued a fresh warning against 21 different types of medication, including products marketed for weight loss, hair strengthening, and the treatment of sexual dysfunction, among other conditions.
The unauthorized importation and sale of pharmaceuticals has become a significant issue in the Maldives recently. Various medications are also being increasingly marketed and sold through online platforms.
Regarding this matter, the Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) stated that under the Medicines Regulation and the Health Services Act, pharmaceuticals may only be imported into the Maldives by entities registered with the authority as importers. Furthermore, all imported medications must be registered in accordance with established protocols and included on the approved drug list.
The Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) has noted that unauthorized parties are importing various types of medication through various channels and selling them via online platforms and retail shops. The authority emphasized that the ingredients in such products have not been verified, nor has the quality or safety of these unregistered items been confirmed. Consequently, the MFDA stated that the importation, sale, and use of such products are strictly prohibited.
The Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) has warned that importing and selling unidentified medicinal products poses a significant risk of unforeseen health complications for consumers. The authority noted that it has identified 21 specific unregistered medications currently being widely distributed through online platforms and retail outlets.
The list includes the pain-relief cream Move, a skin-lightening product, and medications used for weight loss and hair strengthening. Additionally, various treatments for sexual dysfunction have been included in the list.
The Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) has announced that it will take legal action against online platforms and retail outlets importing, selling, or advertising medicines without authorization. The authority stated that such measures will be enforced under the Medicines Regulation and the Health Services Act.
As the unauthorized import and sale of medicine in the Maldives continues to escalate, the Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) issued warnings in both January and April, vowing to take strict action against those involved in the illicit trade. However, to date, no concrete measures have been implemented to address the issue beyond the issuance of these warnings.
