Counterfeit medicines are a growing concern in Kenya, posing serious health risks to consumers. The rise in fake drugs can lead to ineffective treatments, prolonged illnesses, and even life-threatening conditions. Identifying genuine medicines ensures safety and effectiveness, protecting both individuals and the broader healthcare system. This guide will help you recognize authentic drugs and understand regulatory approvals from KEBS (Kenya Bureau of Standards) and the PPB (Pharmacy and Poisons Board).

1. Check for PPB Approval

The Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) is the primary regulatory body responsible for approving and monitoring medicines in Kenya. Ensuring that medicines are registered and approved by PPB is the first step in confirming their authenticity. Here’s how to verify:

• Look for the PPB Registration Number – Every legitimate medicine has a unique registration number issued by PPB. This number should be clearly printed on the packaging and can be cross-checked for authenticity.
• Use the PPB Online Verification Portal – Visit the PPB website and check if the medicine is listed in their database. This is an easy and effective way to confirm whether a drug is approved for sale in Kenya.
• Check the Manufacturer’s Details – Ensure that the manufacturer listed on the packaging is recognized and registered by PPB. Counterfeit medicines often have vague or untraceable manufacturer information.
• Look for an Importation License – If the medicine is imported, it should have an importation license approved by PPB, ensuring it meets Kenyan health and safety standards.

2. Verify KEBS Certification

The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) ensures that all medicines sold in the country meet quality and safety standards. Here’s how to confirm that your medicine has KEBS approval:

• Look for the Standardization Mark (SM) – Genuine medicines bear the KEBS quality mark, which indicates that the product has passed stringent safety tests.
• Use the KEBS SMS Code for Verification – Send the product’s standardization mark number to 20023 via SMS to verify its authenticity. This service allows consumers to confirm whether a product is genuine before purchase.
• Check for Holograms and Security Seals – Some medicines have additional security features such as KEBS-issued holograms and tamper-proof seals to prevent counterfeiting. If the hologram is missing, tampered with, or looks suspicious, do not purchase the product.

3. Examine the Packaging and Labeling

Counterfeit medicines often have poor-quality packaging compared to genuine ones. Carefully inspect the medicine’s external and internal packaging before purchase. Look for the following indicators:

• Proper Sealing – Authentic medicines are well-sealed with no signs of tampering. Broken seals or damaged packaging are red flags.
• Clear Printing and Branding – Check for spelling errors, blurry text, or inconsistent logos. Authentic medicines have high-quality printing that is crisp and professional.
• Batch Number and Expiry Date – Ensure the batch number and expiry date are printed (not just stamped) and match the manufacturer’s details. Fake medicines often have smudged, misaligned, or altered expiry dates.
• Instruction Leaflet – Original medicines come with an instruction leaflet providing information about dosage, side effects, and manufacturer details. The absence of a leaflet or poor-quality printing may indicate a counterfeit product.

4. Buy from Licensed Pharmacies

Where you buy your medicine matters. Avoid purchasing drugs from unreliable sources, including unlicensed street vendors or online platforms without verification. Here’s how to ensure you’re getting genuine medicine:

• Purchase from Registered Pharmacies and Chemists – Look for pharmacies that have PPB licensing certificates displayed prominently.
• Use Reputable Online Pharmacies – If buying medicine online, ensure the platform is recognized by PPB and has verifiable contact information.
• Check the Pharmacist’s Credentials – Ensure that the pharmacist or healthcare professional selling the medicine is qualified and registered with the relevant regulatory bodies.
• Avoid Buying Medicine from Street Vendors – Medicines sold on the streets or in informal markets are often counterfeit, expired, or improperly stored, making them unsafe for consumption.

5. Check the Physical Appearance of the Medicine

Counterfeit medicines often have noticeable differences from authentic ones. Always compare the medicine’s appearance with previous purchases or with images from reliable sources. Pay attention to:

• Color and Shape – Genuine medicines maintain a consistent color and shape. If the medicine looks different from what you are used to, verify with a pharmacist.
• Taste and Smell – Some counterfeit drugs have unusual tastes or smells that differ from authentic versions.
• Texture and Coating – Fake medicines may have a different texture or lack the smooth coating of genuine products.
• Unusual Reactions – If the medicine causes unexpected side effects, discomfort, or does not work as expected, stop using it and consult a healthcare professional immediately.

6. Report Suspicious Medicines

If you come across a medicine that you suspect to be counterfeit, report it immediately. Taking action can prevent others from falling victim to fake drugs. Here’s what to do:

• Report to PPB – Use their hotline or online reporting system to submit a complaint about suspected counterfeit medicine.
• Inform KEBS – KEBS provides consumer protection services where you can report substandard products.
• Alert Your Pharmacist or Doctor – Healthcare professionals can assist in verifying medicine authenticity and take necessary action.
• Spread Awareness – Educating family and friends about counterfeit medicines helps create a more informed society that can recognize and reject fake drugs.

Conclusion

Ensuring you purchase genuine medicines protects your health, prevents complications, and supports a safer healthcare environment. Always verify regulatory approvals, check packaging details, and purchase from licensed pharmacies. If you ever have doubts, consult a professional or use verification tools provided by PPB and KEBS. By staying informed and cautious, you can avoid counterfeit drugs and ensure safe medication use in Kenya.