R3 million lost to fake drugs: Motsoaledi warns of growing public health danger

MINISTER of Health Dr Aaron Motsoaledi has exposed a growing threat in the pharmaceutical sector, reporting that SAHPRA recorded 507 suspected counterfeit and illicit medicine cases in 2024/25, of which 110 were confirmed.

- HOPE NTANZI

MINISTER of Health Dr Aaron Motsoaledi. IOL Graphics

(IOL Graphics)

The Minister also revealed that approximately R3 million was spent on the destruction of these products, highlighting the significant financial and public health risks posed by the illicit trade in medicines.

This follows a question posed by EFF Member of Parliament (MP) Thandiswa Marawu, who asked the Minister to address the rapid rise in the sale of counterfeit medicines across the Republic.

Marawu asked about the types of medicines most commonly counterfeited, the extent of the problem in terms of reported cases, seizures, and the economic impact, as well as key indicators that consumers should look for to identify illicit or counterfeit products.

In a written parliamentary reply, Motsoaledi outlined the types of medicines most commonly targeted by counterfeiters, including pain management drugs, weight loss products, skin lightening or bleaching treatments, medical devices like condoms, and medications for impotence or sexual enhancement.