Counterfeits cause parallel importer to withdraw product in Denmark

A Danish supplier of parallel-imported and generic pharmaceuticals has been forced to withdraw an HIV medicine from the market because it has been compromised by the presence of counterfeits.

Orifarm said it took the decision to withdraw supplies of Truvada (emtricitabine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate) - a combination HIV medicine originally developed and marketed by US drugmaker Gilead Sciences - in consultation with the Danish Medicines Agency.

"If this medicine has been handed out to a patient, he or she will be contacted by the hospital," said the DMA in a statement.

The potential counterfeiting was discovered in the UK, according to the agency, which noted that initial investigations indicate that the actual medicine is safe.

"The packs and package leaflets are not original," it said. "Apparently, tablets destined for the Turkish market have been repacked in counterfeited packaging in Great Britain."

The DMA said it does not expect any shortage in the marketplace as a result of the withdrawal because Truvada can be obtained from other suppliers.