Drug Labeling: Developing World

In some developing countries, drug labeling regulations are in place in much the same way as they are in the United States and Europe, but this type of regulation does not always follow through in practice. With a lack of capital and authorities focusing on larger matters than what is on a prescription label, cracks quickly develop in these countries’ fragile health systems.

Drug control legislation may appear similar on paper, but drug production and distribution are not highly regulated in actuality. Most drugs consumed in developing countries are imported from abroad, and grossly exaggerated claims are sometimes made about their benefits when they are shipped overseas. Adverse reactions to the drugs may be minimalized or excluded during the same process.

Other medications making their way to ...