THE EMERGENCE AND DEVELOPMENT OF PHARMACEUTICAL DEONTOLOGY: COUNTERFEIT MEDICINES: A GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH THREAT

Counterfeit medicines represent a significant and growing challenge to global healthcare systems. These falsified pharmaceutical products may contain incorrect ingredients, improper dosages, or harmful substances, posing serious risks to patient safety. This article explores the scope of counterfeit medicines, their impact on public health, contributing factors, and strategies for prevention and control, supported by a review of relevant literature.