Illegally imported Medicinal Products into Switzerland: Increasing Risks, but Fewer Shipments

Swissmedic, Switzerland’s drug and medical product authority, reported 5,668 illegal medicinal imports in 2024, a 15% decrease from the previous year. Erectile stimulants made up the largest share (57%), followed by psychotropic drugs, sleeping pills, and tranquillisers (10%), and nasal sprays, laxatives, and hormones (4–6%). Most products originated from Western Europe, India, and Eastern Europe, with traders using detours to evade controls.

Swissmedic warns against dubious online pharmacies, citing serious health risks. Lab tests revealed over 30% of examined drugs contained 2–4 times the authorised doses of sildenafil, tadalafil, or vardenafil. Some products also contained unauthorised drug combinations, raising medical concerns.

Additionally, “natural” or “plant-based” products often contain hidden synthetic ingredients in harmful doses, misleading consumers. Swissmedic urges the public to purchase medicines only from authorised sources to ensure safety.

11-03-2025

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