Further resources on the dangers of online pharmacies can be found through the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Health officials emphasize that purchasing medications from unlicensed online pharmacies poses significant risks, including the possibility of overdose from dangerous counterfeit drugs.

If individuals suspect they have purchased counterfeit medications, the CDC recommends checking the pharmacy's state license and safely disposing of any questionable drugs.

Consumers are urged to exercise caution with online pharmacies that do not require prescriptions, lack proper licensing, or offer suspiciously low prices.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a warning regarding the dangers of counterfeit drugs sold through illegal online pharmacies, following the indictment of 18 individuals involved in such operations.

This warning comes in the wake of a Department of Justice indictment related to counterfeit prescription pills containing fentanyl and methamphetamine, which have resulted in at least nine deaths.

Among the victims of these counterfeit drugs is a 45-year-old army veteran who died after taking what she believed was genuine oxycodone.

Research indicates that nearly 95% of online pharmacies operate illegally, with 24% of Americans who have used them encountering harmful or counterfeit medications.

Counterfeit pills often contain potent substances like fentanyl and methamphetamine, which dramatically increase the risk of overdose.

The CDC advises consumers to only take medications prescribed by licensed healthcare providers and dispensed by licensed pharmacies to ensure safety.

In cases of suspected opioid overdose, the CDC recommends administering naloxone and calling 911 for immediate medical assistance.

Victims of counterfeit drugs have been reported from diverse locations, including all 50 states, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Germany, and Slovenia.