Preliminary tests by the FDA revealed that the counterfeit version does not contain orlistat — the active ingredient in the product — but instead contains sibutramine.
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The counterfeit Alli has been sold over the internet in 60-mg capsules as part of a 120-count refill kit.
The FDA warns that sibutramine should not be used in certain patient populations or without physician consent because it may counteract with other medications.
Differences in packaging between the counterfeit and authentic product include:
* Missing lot code on outer cardboard packaging
* Expiration date with the month, day and year (e.g., 06162010) whereas the authentic Alli expiration date includes only the month and year (e.g., 05/12);
* Packaging in a plastic bottle with a slightly taller and wider cap with coarser ribbing;
* Plain foil inner safety seal under the plastic cap without any printed words; the authentic product seal is printed with “Sealed for your protection” and;
* Larger capsules with a white powder, instead of small white pellets.
Link to the FDA post here: http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/SafetyInformation/SafetyAlertsforHumanMedicalProducts/ucm197862.htm
