The warning has been issued after surveillance by the New Zealand Ministry of Health Medicines and Medical Devices Safety Authority, Medsafe, discovered that morning after and abortion pills and oral contraceptives that were not approved for use in New Zealand were being sold to the public. It appears that the medicines have been imported privately and advertised through a Chinese language website in the last 18 months.
Once aware, Medsafe moved to immediately stop any further supply of these medicines. Investigations are continuing into the extent of distribution.
Under the law, access to medicines is restricted to protect consumers from the risks medicines can pose if they are not used appropriately or on medical advice. In New Zealand it is illegal to be in possession of a prescription-only medicine without having first obtained a prescription.
“Consumers can be exposed to substantial health risks if they take medicines, especially prescription medicines, without diagnosis and advice from an appropriately qualified healthcare professional,” said Dr Poutasi. “Medicines obtained from unauthorized sources may be dangerous and may even be counterfeit.”