The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued a public warning regarding counterfeit versions of the drugs simvastatin and carisoprodol that have recently been imported from Mexico to the U.S.
Simvastatin is used with diet changes (restriction of cholesterol and fat intake) to reduce the amount of cholesterol and certain fatty substances in your blood. Accumulation of cholesterol and fats along the walls of your arteries (a process known as atherosclerosis) decreases blood flow and, therefore, the oxygen supply to your heart, brain, and other parts of your body. Lowering your blood level of cholesterol and fats may help to prevent heart disease, angina (chest pain), strokes, and heart attacks.
Carisoprodol, a muscle relaxant, is used with rest, physical therapy, and other measures to relax muscles and relieve pain and discomfort caused by strains, sprains, and other muscle injuries.
Tests have indicated that the counterfeit simvastatin did not contain any active ingredient and that the counterfeit carisoprodol differed in potency when compared to the authentic product. Carisoprodol is a drug used in the treatment of painful musculoskeletal conditions and Zocor is a cholesterol lowering drug. The counterfeit versions were reportedly purchased at Mexican border town pharmacies and sold under the names Zocor, 40/mg, (lot number K9784, expiration date November 2004), and Carisoprodol, 350/mg, (lot number 68348A). Patients who rely on these counterfeit versions of the drugs could develop serious health risks (with the counterfeit Zocor) or have insufficient pain relief (with the counterfeit carisoprodol).