NEW INTERNET Rx HORROR PUTS ONLINE PATIENTS AT RISK

The FDA has uncovered a new Internet drug nightmare—the specter of patients being endangered byreceiving powerful antipsychotic medication in place ofthe prescription drugs that they ordered online.

According to the FDA officials, Americans who placedorders over the Internet for drugs such as zolpidem tartrate(Ambien), alprazolam (Xanax), escitalopramoxalate (Lexapro), and lorazepam (Ativan) actually received a product that appearsto contain haloperidol, a drug to treat schizophrenia that can cause muscle stiffnessand spasms, agitation, and sedation.

"Reports show several consumers in the United States have sought emergencymedical treatment for symptoms such as difficulty in breathing, muscle spasms,and muscle stiffness after ingesting the suspect product," reported the FDA.

An investigation into the origin of the bogus drugs is ongoing, but FDA officialsconfirmed that the packages were postmarked in Greece.