AboutMichael Anisfeld Expertise Disclaimer:
SORRY BUT I DO NOT ANSWER QUESTIONS RELATED TO: DRUG ACTIONS/INTERACTIONS, INTERNET DRUG PURCHASES, RESULTS OF DRUG TESTS, IDENTIFYING DRUGS (FOR WHICH YOUR LOCAL PHARMACIST IS THE BEST PERSON TO CONSULT).
My expertise is answering questions relating to pharmaceutical manufacturing and quality technologies, drug regulations and specifically GMP requirements
Experience
Past/Present Clients UN agencies (UNFPA, UNICEF, UNIDO)
Governments (Australia, Canada, India, United Kingdon, United States
Companies - over 200 companies in 37 countries
Question Micheal,
Originally I was given samples of Alprazolam .500mcg from my Doctor. These samples were from a different souce (than Geneva) I'm assuming because the shape was round instead of oval. The samples were so much more noticeably stronger than the product I've received from Genava. I've been on the medication for a couple of weeks and am starting to feel like this lots quality (strength) is somehow compromised. I have a follow up with my doctor in a week and will discuss this with him. Is there anything I can do to verify the quality of the producted I've received. I will call Geneva and state my concerns but I was wondering what other advice you might have. Thanks for your time.
Eric
Answer Dear Eric:
Several things could be going on here:
a. your doctor could have changed the medication without telling you - or changed the strength of the same medication (in fact get a photocopy of the prescription).
b. your pharmacist could have made a dispensing mistake and provided the wrong drug, or the wrong strength medication.
c. there could be a manufacturing problem.
Of the three options, the least likely, with all the checks and balances in place in the pharma industry is the last option.
I suggest:
a. check with your doctor to find out what exactly he prescribed, especially what strength.
b. then knowing this, check the label of the medication you received. If there is an error, you have reason to complain to, or change, or sue your local pharmacy
c. if the pharmacy gave you exactly what the doctor prescribed, then get the lot number information of the drug dispensed from the pharmacy (very critical information to have), and the manufacturer's name. Complain in writing to both the manufacturer, and also directly to the FDA. FDA will, for sure, investigate independently of the manufacturer. And, if mistakes were made, get a lawyer.
This is a sound strategy, but you need to do things in the order I have stated. The big danger in all this is that you are suffering from what is called a 'placebo effect'. The tablets "look different", so you subconsciously feel that they actually "are different"; when in fact they are the same drug and potency as previously.
