The Department of Health (DOH) and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) continue their investigation on reported overpriced investigational drugs.
Dr. Melissa Guerrero, DOH Pharmaceutical Division chief, said in a June 1 briefing that they have received around 50 complaints on overpriced remdesivir.
Guerrero said around five remdesivir suppliers are being investigated on the matter, majority of whom are importers of the generic drug from India.
Based on the product’s suggested retail price, a 100-milligram vial costs P1,500 to P8,200.
“Minsan ‘di na risonable ang presyo, mayroon daw umaabot ng P30,000 per vial, where we know we can source that product from India for as low as P2,000 or P3,000. Mayroon pang P1,000 eh,” Guerrero said.
The DTI has already issued a warning against the online sale of drugs such as ivermectin, antibiotics, supplemental medicines for the lungs and kidneys, and vitamins. Undersecretary Ruth Castelo said they have received around 4,000 complaints as of May 28 regarding online drug sales.
“We also issued advisories reminding consumers not to buy medicines online especially kung makita nila walang license to operate yung nagbebenta,” Castelo said.
“Facebook marketplace, nandoon nagpo-proliferate ‘yung unregistered sellers na mga fly by night na hindi mo na alam kung saan mo hahanapin later on,” she added. – Report from Mark Fetalco/AG-rir
