Breach of UK medical supply chain uncovered

The UK has experienced the “most serious known breach” of its regulated medicines supply chain which resulted in more than two million doses of fake life-saving drugs being imported into the UK.

At least one criminal was behind the infiltration of counterfeit medicine during a five month period in 2007, it has been revealed.

Although the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) seized more than half of these, almost 900,000 doses reached pharmacies and patients.
 
Peter Gillespie was found guilty in a UK court and sentenced to eight years imprisonment for the fraud. Four other men on trial for their involvement have been acquitted.

The MHRA revealed that it carried out an immediate recall of Zyprexa, Plavix and Casodex and, as a result, a further 196,000 doses were recovered, however 700,000 doses remained unfound.

The trial began in November 2010 and the MHRA said is pleased that the individuals concerned have been brought to justice.

"This outcome sends a clear message to those involved, or contemplating involvement in, the manufacture and supply of counterfeit medicines,” Mick Deats,  MHRA head of enforcement said

"Public health is a matter of public concern and those deliberately putting people's lives in jeopardy should expect to be vigorously pursued through the criminal courts."This is serious criminal activity and puts people's lives at risk,” he said.

“Our primary objective is to protect public health and we will not hesitate to take all appropriate action to eliminate the risks posed by counterfeit medicines and take action against those engaged in their supply.”

Read more here.