ABSTRACT
The issue of counterfeit medicines is a growing concern in developing countries, including Indonesia. In 2011, according to International Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Group (IPMG), 11% of medicines marketed in Indonesia were counterfeit products, causing 7.6 trillion rupiah in losses. This paper provides an analysis of consumer knowledge, experience, and attitutes towards counterfeit medicines viewed from the legal perspective. Based on the survey research method applied, questionnaires were used to collect data from 200 consumers above the age of 17 residing in Jakarta, who were selected using the quota sampling technique. This research concludes that consumers are incapable of protecting themselves from the harm of counterfeit medicines. Consumers’ lack of knowledge concerning counterfeit medicines including the relevant regulations poses serious health risks to Indonesian consumers. Only a small number of consumers stated their experience of purchasing counterfeit medicines; however, it happened intentionally. This research recommends that BPOM and other government agencies as well as pharmaceutical companies cooperate to combat counterfeit medicines in order to protect consumers from the hazards to their health and safety.
