Are counterfeit drugs still a problem?
In Thailand they have not been a problem because the anti-malaria programme is fully run by the government; it has long been illegal to sell anti-malaria drugs over the counter in Thailand. In Cambodia efforts have been made through the national government and international bodies like Interpol to crack down on the importers, distributors, sellers and prescribers of counterfeit drugs. 250 “justice police” have been trained through the project and they have been conducting regular inspections. Raids also have been carried out to enforce the law. In areas which previously had a big problem such as in Pailin and Siem Reap, earlier this year there was evidence that it was difficult to find counterfeit drugs in the market, pharmacies and clinics. But the problem could return without on-going vigilance. There has also been work done to educate people about the danger of using fake drugs and to let people know that safe treatment is available for free through public clinics and in the village
