Objectives
Counterfeit/falsified medicines (CFM) have serious public health consequences in both developed and less developed countries. The study aimed to assess public awareness and views towards CFM in Lebanon.
Methods
The study used convenience sampling and was based on cross‐sectional surveys of the public that took place in different regions in Lebanon, using two questionnaires (Q1 and Q2).
Key findings
A total of 849 participated in the study (464 Q1 and 385 Q2). The majority (93.4%) of respondents reported being aware of the term CFM, and television was the source of awareness for 84.4% of respondents. Additionally, 28.9% of respondents did not know how to compare CFM to their original, 19.6% did not answer the question, and only 3.7% reported that the original medicine would have the hologram on the package. Respondents reported the best way to avoid buying CFM would be via a trustworthy pharmacist (83.4%). The majority (83.1%) disagreed that CFM were as good as the originals, and 46% agreed that the original medicines were highly priced, and CFM were of better price value. Moreover, respondents reported agreeing that pharmacists who dispensed CFM were unprofessional (81.3%) and unethical (83.1%).
Conclusions
The awareness, experiences and views of respondents showed the perceived risk that CFM have on public health and the need to develop continuous awareness and educational campaigns about the safety and efficacy of medicines. Additionally, this study highlighted the need for the government and regulatory authorities to apply and enforce the law against counterfeiters.