UK WARNING OVER ONLINE PHARMACIES

The UK government should take action over prescription drugs sold over the Internet without safeguards or controls, according to UK-based think tank the Centre for Reform. A new study partly funded by US drugmaker Merck & Co claims that while online pharmacies add a welcome new dimension -- or at least sales outlet -- for the industry, some Internet retailers illicitly dispense medicines without the need for prescription, or offer any advice or support.

Significantly, the report recommends that the online retail industry should work towards eliminating social stigmas attached to certain diseases, which may drive patients away from face-to-face doctor consultations. According to the study, global sales of online drugs are expected to reach GBP8.1bn (US$10.17bn) in 2006. The most popular online drugs are treatments for erectile dysfunction and weight loss.