Websites to display EU branding for sale of medications

Websites selling over-the-counter medicines in Ireland now have to display an EU logo to show that the drugs are safe and effective.

Internet sellers of non-prescription medicines in Ireland must apply to the Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland to be included on the regulator’s list of registered suppliers.

Kathleen Lynch, the primary care minister, has urged people to look for the EU logo first to avoid buying fake medicine. “Many internet sites that supply medicines hide their true identity and location to deceive people. Criminals are often behind the operation of these websites,” she said.