In the context of continuous healthcare sector innovation to better serve the community, counterfeit medicine remains a serious challenge. The recent case in Thanh Hoa, where police discovered and dismantled a large-scale counterfeit drug production and trading network, has once again raised alarm about this situation.
According to the Drug Administration of Vietnam – Ministry of Health, counterfeit drugs, especially treatment medications and health supplements of unknown origin, are seriously threatening public health. Using these products not only reduces treatment effectiveness but can also cause serious side effects, potentially life-threatening.
Furthermore, counterfeit drugs erode public trust in the healthcare system, affect the pharmaceutical industry's reputation, and cause significant economic losses.
Step 1: Access the Drug Administration's online public service system, Drug Registration section, to check registration numbers at: https://dichvucong.dav.gov.vn/congbothuoc/index
Step 2: Search for drug registration certificates and pharmaceutical ingredients circulating in Vietnam by entering drug information (searchable by drug name, manufacturer, registration facility, drug registration number, etc.)
Select "Registration Number Search"
Enter complete information: Registration number (VD-..., VN-..., QLSP-...) or drug name (Paracetamol, Augmentin, ...)
Click "Search" to display results
Step 3: Compare and verify results. The system will provide:
Complete drug information including name, registration number, dosage form, active ingredients, strength, registration facility, manufacturer
View labels and usage instructions approved by the Drug Administration in the instructions/LABEL column

1. Buy from reputable sources:
Only purchase from licensed, reputable pharmacies with clear addresses
Avoid unclear sources like markets, street vendors, or social media/livestream platforms
2. Check packaging and information:
Packaging must be intact, not torn, faded, or showing signs of tampering
Verify information: drug name, batch number, manufacturing date, expiry date, registration number, manufacturer
Compare with genuine packaging to detect differences in color, print, or logo
Observe color, size, markings on pills and boxes
Use barcode/QR code scanning apps to verify product information
3. Request invoices and documentation:
Ask for purchase receipts to ensure origin
Receipts serve as basis for complaints if counterfeits are detected
4. Be aware of unusual pricing:
Counterfeit drugs are often sold at suspiciously low prices
Exercise caution if prices are significantly below market rates
5. Research from official sources:
Check information on the Drug Administration website (dav.gov.vn) or manufacturer websites
Consult doctors or pharmacists before purchasing
Only buy prescription drugs with doctor's prescription
6. Be cautious with online purchases:
From July 1, 2025, when Law No. 44/2024 takes effect, only certain non-prescription drugs can be sold through e-commerce platforms
After July 1, 2025, only buy from licensed online pharmacies
Avoid social media platforms or unidentified individual sellers
7. Limit purchases based on advertisements:
Avoid believing in "miracle drug" advertisements
Be wary of drugs of unclear origin sold online or through word-of-mouth
8. Report suspicious cases:
Report suspected counterfeits to authorities (Department of Health, Drug Administration, or local police)
If counterfeit drugs are purchased, stop use immediately and contact healthcare facilities for advice
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Event Details:
Date: September 24-27, 2025
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Source: Health & Life Newspaper