Dutch Health Inspectors Warn of Surging Fake Online Pharmacies Selling Prescription Drugs

Urgent Warning Issued by Health Ministry Inspectors

Health ministry inspectors in the Netherlands have issued an urgent warning regarding the significant increase in fake online pharmacies. These illicit platforms are reportedly selling prescription-only medications, including ADHD medication and painkillers, without requiring a medical prescription. The Inspectie Gezondheidszorg en Jeugd (IGJ), the Dutch Health and Youth Care Inspectorate, highlighted the severe health risks associated with purchasing drugs from these unregulated sources. The warning was issued on November 1, 2025, following a detailed report from the IGJ.

Alarming Rise in Illicit Activity and Associated Dangers

Between January and October 2025, the IGJ received 187 reports concerning fake online pharmacies, a notable increase from the 114 reports in the same period last year. The inspectorate investigated approximately 150 websites, many of which were hosted from abroad. These fraudulent websites often mimic legitimate online pharmacies, featuring images of individuals in white coats and convincing packaging, but are largely illegal and sometimes linked to criminal networks.

The dangers of obtaining medication from these sources are substantial:

• The origin and quality of the drugs are often unclear, meaning they could be polluted, contain incorrect dosages, or lack active ingredients entirely.
• Consumers face serious health risks, including organ damage, unexpected side effects, and dangerous interactions with other medications, due to the absence of medical supervision.
• There is a significant risk of fraud, where individuals pay for medication but receive nothing.
• A tragic incident in Amsterdam saw a 30-year-old man die after taking counterfeit oxycodone, which was found to contain potent synthetic opioids called nitazenes instead of the prescribed painkiller.

The IGJ also noted a marked increase in the availability of ADHD medication, such as methylphenidate, which is popular among students seeking to improve concentration and stamina. However, using such medication without a proper diagnosis and medical guidance poses considerable risks.

Identifying and Combating Fake Online Pharmacies

The IGJ and the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport (VWS) advise consumers to be vigilant. Red flags for identifying fake online pharmacies include the sale of prescription drugs without a doctor's note, requests for payment in cryptocurrency, lack of pharmacy registration, and vague contact details. Legitimate online pharmacies in the Netherlands are required to display an official EU logo, which, when clicked, should redirect users to a government-maintained list of authorized suppliers.

In response to the growing threat, dozens of these illicit webshops have been taken offline, and one case has been reported to the police. The IGJ is actively collaborating with online platforms like bol.com, Marktplaats, and Tweedehands.net to prevent the illegal offering of medicines. Care professionals, schools, and colleges have also been urged to warn students and patients about the dangers of acquiring medication from unverified online sources.