Release Date
Fri, 02/05/2021
CHICAGO–Passengers arriving or returning to the U.S. are required to declare any items they may have purchased during their travels. On February 4, at Chicago O’Hare International Airport, a passenger returning from his trip to India was questioned by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers about the various articles he was bringing back, particularly his eight boxes containing pills. Overview
Upon examination of his baggage, officers discovered that the passenger possessed an astonishing 3,200 Sildenafil Citrate tablets (100 mg). When questioned about the purpose of carrying such a large quantity of pills, he claimed that they were intended for his friends and noted that in India the medication is classified as an over-the-counter product.
The nine pounds of pills were seized by authorities on the grounds of unlawful importation of medication into the United States. The estimated manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for these medications is approximately $96,608. It is important to note that the FDA prohibits the importation of prescription drugs purchased outside the U.S. to ensure the safety of American consumers. For further details regarding traveling with and importing medications, individuals are encouraged to visit the FDA's Drugs page for guidance.
Prescription medications produced by foreign entities that do not adhere to strict regulatory standards often harbor harmful contaminants or ineffective ingredients. While their packaging and labeling might bear similarities to approved products, the inconsistency in ingredients and lack of rigorous quality controls can pose serious risks to consumer health and safety.
“Our inspecting officers face the challenging responsibility of thoroughly screening items brought into the U.S. by passengers,” explained Shane Campbell, Area Port Director-Chicago. “Some travelers attempt to conceal items from our officers, which can lead to potentially dangerous situations. In this particular case, our vigilant officers successfully intercepted these pills, preventing their entry into the U.S. and protecting our community from potential harm.”
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) strongly advises consumers to engage in discussions with their healthcare professionals regarding any medical conditions and to consider obtaining prescription medications exclusively from state-licensed pharmacies within the United States. This practice helps ensure that the medications are safe, effective, and produced following established regulations.
Customs and Border Protection (CBP) conducts comprehensive operations throughout various ports of entry across the United States, routinely screening arriving international passengers and cargo for narcotics, weapons, and a range of restricted or prohibited products. CBP is dedicated to serving as the leading law enforcement agency committed to enhancing the nation’s safety, security, and prosperity through innovative collaboration and strategic integration of resources.
For more updates and information, follow CBP on Twitter @CBPChicago and @DFOChicago.