As indicated in section 5, it is important to know the magnitude and nature of drug counterfeiting in a country when designing strategies to combat the problem and determining priorities for implementation. The numerous studies conducted in many countries on the quality of available pharmaceutical products were not specifically designed to gather information on counterfeit drugs, and have therefore provided few accurate data in this area. Further information on the risks of exposure to treatments with poor quality drug products and, more specifically, with counterfeit products is also required.

Before embarking on a national study to assess drug counterfeiting, countries should consider appropriate methods and procedures, prepare a practical guide(s) for the collection of samples and decide how the results will be issued. The results of such studies performed in other countries may be useful in designing protocols. If external experts are performing the study, they should discuss all these aspects with the appropriate national authorities prior to implementation.