Rep. Deutsch Reacts to Proposed FDA Regulations on Battling Counterfeit Prescription Drugs

Rep. Deutsch Reacts to Proposed FDA Regulations on Battling Counterfeit Prescription Drugs

(Washington, DC) - Congressman Peter Deutsch (FL20) applauded new efforts today by the FDA to address the growing problem of counterfeit prescription drugs entering into the US drug supply.

"The FDA proposals are a step forward in assuring the safety of our nation's drug supply," said Deutsch. "We must be vigilant in weeding out these criminals from profiting off those who are most vulnerable."

The FDA announced an 8-step plan to battle counterfeit prescription drugs including using better and more reliable technology to track legitimate drugs, new wholesaler regulations, and increased penalties among others. The full report and executive summary can be found on the FDA's website at:

www.fda.gov/oc/initiatives/counterfeit/report02_04.html.

"If Wal-Mart can track underwear from manufacturer to distributor to their shelves, surely we can have the same for our prescription drug system," said Deutsch.

Congressman Deutsch proposed a new law (HR 2936) last July to increase penalties dramatically on those who sell prescription drugs that were knowingly adulterated or misbranded. The FDA intends to address the need for increased penalties in their initiative.

"Florida has been at the forefront of both the problem and the solution. Last March, I called a hearing to bring together both Federal officials from the FDA and state regulators in an effort to truly address drug counterfeiting" said Deutsch. "Now, almost a year later, I am pleased that the federal government is shunning baseless election year rhetoric and finally implementing a concrete plan into place."