The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned the public on risks linked with the use of some medicines in treatment against coronavirus disease (COVID-19), including drugs bought online and from unauthorized sources.

The country’s food and drug regulatory agency said it cannot assure the public of the safety and quality of medicines which have not undergone evaluation and assessment.

“Unauthorized medicines may not be stored correctly in accordance with its appropriate storage conditions therefore compromising its stability,” the FDA said in an advisory issued Friday, April 30.

The agency pointed out that all medicines could cause serious side effects and health problems if not used based on its the prescribed indication and dosage.

“These can pose serious health risks, hence, it is important to seek advice from physicians and pharmacists prior to use,” it said.

The FDA has urged patients, caregivers and the public to report suspected adverse reactions or side effects when using medicines.

“It is also important to contact your doctor or pharmacist to inform you of any medical care or a change in treatment if needed,” it said.

Those who want to report an adverse reaction to a drug can contact the FDA through its online reporting platform: https://primaryreporting.who-umc.org/Reporting/Reporter?OrganizationID=PH

“Anyone can report issues relating to the safety of medicines to FDA as this contributes to the overall knowledge of the safety of a medicine and the patient experience,” the FDA said.