Health Canada has seized counterfeit Viagra from a Daisy Mart in Toronto, as well as counterfeit Viagra and Cialis from an MJ Mini Mart in Toronto. The counterfeit products were sold in individual blister packs with no other packaging. Authorized Viagra and Cialis do not come in blister packs without any other packaging. These products are in addition to several other unauthorised sexual enhancement products that Health Canada seized from these same locations. Counterfeit drugs are made to look like authentic products, but they are not the same and they may not contain the drug at all. They can pose serious health risks if it contains a higher dosage than shown on the label; and contain contaminants and hidden ingredients. Unlike authorized and authentic drug products, counterfeit drugs have not been assessed by Health Canada for safety, effectiveness, and quality. Selling counterfeit health products is illegal. Health Canada has confirmed with the authorized manufacturers of Viagra and Cialis that the seized products are counterfeit. The seized counterfeit products—like authentic Viagra and Cialis—are labelled to contain their respective prescription drug ingredients, sildenafil, and tadalafil. Sildenafil and tadalafil are prescription drugs used to treat erectile dysfunction and should be used only under the supervision of a health care professional. The drugs should not be used by individuals taking any kind of nitrate drug (e.g., nitroglycerin) as they can cause potentially life-threatening low blood pressure. Individuals with heart problems are at increased risk of cardiovascular side effects such as heart attack, stroke, chest pain, high blood pressure, and abnormal heartbeat. Other possible side effects include headache, facial flushing, indigestion, dizziness, abnormal vision, and hearing loss. Health Canada reminds consumers that the best way to make sure their prescription drugs are authentic is to buy them from a licensed pharmacy. Moreover, prescription drugs should be taken only under the advice and supervision of a health care professional because they are used to treat specific health conditions and may cause serious side effects. Prescription drugs can only be legally sold to consumers in Canada with a prescription and cannot be sold in convenience stores.
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