Release Date
Fri, 07/30/2021
CINCINNATI—On the previous Friday, officers from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in Cincinnati made a significant seizure of around 44 pounds, equivalent to about 23,610 pills, containing sildenafil citrate, the active component found in the well-known prescription medication Viagra. This operation underscores the vigilant efforts undertaken by CBP to monitor and manage the security of drug imports into the United States.Pills
The seized pills were discovered in blister packets that bore indications they had been produced in India, and all of them were designated for delivery to an apartment in Decatur, Georgia. This particular shipment was traced back to a residential apartment in India. Had this shipment been legally imported into the country, the Manufactured Suggested Retail Price would have reached a staggering $712,756, a figure that highlights the potential risks associated with unauthorized drug imports.
In the U.S., prescription medications are tightly regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are prohibited from being imported without the necessary documentation and labeling that confirms their safety and legitimacy. In response to these issues, CBP actively provides essential information regarding import admissibility requirements and the clearance procedures for e-commerce goods. We also strongly encourage consumers to verify that their purchases align with both state and federal import regulations to avoid potential legal repercussions and health risks associated with counterfeit medications.
“Our top priority is protecting citizens from substandard products containing unknown or harmful ingredients,” stated LaFonda Sutton-Burke, Director of Field Operations for the Chicago Field Office. “CBP is entrusted with enforcing a multitude of laws on behalf of various government agencies, and our inter-agency collaborations play a critical role in safeguarding the health and safety of the American public.”
The FDA advises consumers to consult with their healthcare professionals regarding their medical conditions and encourages them to obtain prescription medications exclusively from state-licensed pharmacies located within the United States to ensure safety and quality.
“The FDA is resolute in its commitment to collaborating with our government agency partners to safeguard public health through the preservation of the drug supply chain against counterfeit and unapproved medications that attempt to infiltrate the United States from erroneous sources,” remarked Dan Solis, Assistant Commissioner for the Office of Enforcement and Import Operations within the FDA’s Office of Regulatory Affairs.
CBP routinely conducts operations at various ports of entry throughout the United States, maintaining a constant vigilance by screening incoming international passengers and cargo for narcotics, weapons, and other restricted or prohibited items. The agency aims to operate as the leading law enforcement body that enhances the Nation’s safety, security, and prosperity through proactive collaboration, innovative strategies, and comprehensive integration of efforts.
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