Recently, Gilead Sciences revealed a shocking drug-counterfeiting operation that involved tampering with its HIV medications before they reached patients. The operation, allegedly orchestrated from two New York City pharmacies, was masterminded by Peter Khaim, a known medical fraudster with two prior convictions related to fraudulent activities.
Gilead Sciences filed a lawsuit against Khaim, as well as the two pharmacies – 71st RX and Best Scripts – located in Queens, and other individuals connected to the scheme. The complaint highlighted how Khaim controlled the pharmacies and how counterfeiters used authentic prescription bottles but tampered with the medication and associated documentation.
The majority of the Gilead HIV medications seized in the case were Biktarvy and Descovy. Patients affected by this scheme include those living with HIV who were convinced to switch their prescribed medication, as well as individuals who unknowingly received counterfeit medication from their neighborhood pharmacies.
Gilead, along with private investigators and deputies from the New York City Sheriff’s Office, conducted seizures at the two pharmacies and Khaim’s residence, seizing over $750,000 worth of suspected counterfeit medication. This isn’t the first time Gilead has taken legal action against Khaim, as a previous lawsuit in 2021 resulted in an injunction prohibiting him from selling Gilead-branded products.
Despite the injunction, Khaim continued to oversee a counterfeiting operation from the two Queens pharmacies, showcasing a blatant disregard for the law. His criminal history, including convictions for medical fraud and insurance fraud, paints a clear picture of a repeat offender who prioritizes profits over patient safety.
Gilead reiterated its commitment to putting patient safety first and highlighted its collaboration with regulatory agencies and law enforcement to dismantle counterfeiting networks and deter fraudsters. The company’s swift action in uncovering and addressing this drug-counterfeiting operation underscores the importance of vigilance in safeguarding the integrity of the pharmaceutical supply chain.
In a broader context, Gilead’s efforts to combat drug counterfeiting shed light on the pervasive issue of counterfeit medications in the market. Criminals resort to various tactics, such as altering packaging and medications, to deceive patients and make a profit. The use of lighter fluid to remove labels and reseal bottles is just one example of the devious methods employed by counterfeiters.
The case of the drug-counterfeiting operation masterminded by Peter Khaim serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by counterfeit medications. Gilead’s proactive approach in uncovering and addressing the scheme underscores the critical importance of stringent measures to ensure patient safety and maintain the integrity of the pharmaceutical supply chain. As the battle against drug counterfeiting continues, collaboration between pharmaceutical companies, regulatory authorities, and law enforcement remains crucial to safeguarding public health.