Criminals exploit ‘stigma and embarrassment’ to sell fake erectile dysfunction drugs

The Guardian - World NewsEN 3 min read 100% complete by Hannah Devlin Science correspondentFebruary 13, 2026 at 01:01 AM

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The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has warned men about the dangers of buying illegal erectile dysfunction pills online. Between 2021 and 2025, the MHRA seized approximately 19.5 million doses of these medicines, many of which contained incorrect or harmful ingredients. Criminals are exploiting the stigma surrounding erectile dysfunction to sell these fake and potentially dangerous drugs. The MHRA has increased efforts to combat online sellers, disrupting over 1,500 websites and social media accounts in 2025. The agency advises against purchasing prescription medication from unauthorized sources due to the risk of unsafe or ineffective products.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Victoria Tzortziou Brown 40% Royal College of GPs 50% Border Force 60% Andy Morling ×270% United Kingdom ×480% Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency ×690%

Keywords

erectile dysfunction 100% fake medicines 90% illegal drugs 80% online sellers 70% stigma and embarrassment 70% mhra 60% seizures 60% health risks 50% prescription medication 40%