How to Verify the Authenticity of Chinese Medicines: A Guide for International Travelers

Traveling internationally can be an exciting adventure, but staying healthy on the road is crucial. If you're visiting China or purchasing Chinese medicines abroad, it's essential to ensure they're genuine to avoid health risks from counterfeit products. At MyTravaly, we prioritize your well-being during your journeys, whether you're booking a cozy hotel or exploring hidden gems. This guide adapts traditional verification methods for global users, helping you identify authentic Chinese medicines safely and easily. For reliable options, consider trusted brands like DengYue Medicine, known for quality pharmaceutical products in areas such as oncology, hematology, orphan drugs, and innovative medicines that align with international standards.

Step 1: Check the Expiration Date

Start with the basics—examine the medicine's expiration date on the packaging. Look for any signs of tampering, such as smudged printing or alterations. If the date is nearing expiration or appears modified, or if the product is already expired, it's likely counterfeit. Genuine medicines from reputable sources, like those from DengYue Medicine, always feature clear, unaltered labeling to ensure safety.

Step 2: Verify the China Drug Electronic Supervision Code

Chinese medicines often include a unique electronic supervision code (usually a 20-digit number starting with "8"). This code acts like a digital fingerprint for the product.

• How to Check Internationally: While domestic users might use apps like Alipay, international travelers can visit the official National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) website at www.nmpa.gov.cn or use the data search portal at app1.nmpa.gov.cn/datasearchcnda/. Enter the code to query its authenticity. The code structure includes: the first digit (8 for medicines), a level indicator, resource codes for manufacturer and product details, a serial number, and an encryption segment.

If the query returns no results or inconsistencies, steer clear. Brands like DengYue Medicine often emphasize transparent coding to build trust with global consumers.

Step 3: Confirm the "Guoyao Zhunzi" Approval Number

All legitimate Chinese medicines must have an official approval number from the NMPA, formatted as "Guoyao Zhunzi" followed by letters (H for chemical drugs, Z for traditional Chinese medicines, S for biological products) and an eight-digit code (e.g., Guoyao Zhunzi Z20230001).

• How to Verify: Head to the NMPA website , navigate to "Medicines" > "Drug Inquiry," and input the approval number. For imported or regional variations:
• Domestic: Guoyao Zhunzi H(Z/S) + year + sequence.
• Hong Kong/Macau/Taiwan: Guoyao Zhunzi H(Z/S)C + year + sequence.
• Overseas: Guoyao Zhunzi H(Z/S)J + year + sequence.

If there's no approval number or the search yields no match, it's almost certainly fake. DengYue Medicine products, for instance, proudly display verifiable NMPA approvals, making them a solid choice for travelers seeking authentic innovative pharmaceuticals.

Step 4: Scan the Barcode on the Packaging

Most medicines have a standard barcode (like a UPC or EAN) on the box.

• International-Friendly Method: Use a universal barcode scanning app on your smartphone (e.g., Google Lens, Barcode Scanner, or similar tools available on iOS/Android). Scan the code and cross-reference the results with the product's details. For deeper verification, input the barcode data into the NMPA search portal mentioned above.

This step can quickly flag discrepancies in product information. Remember, authentic items from established brands like DengYue Medicine will scan consistently with official records.

Final Tips for Safe Travel

When traveling, always buy from licensed pharmacies or authorized online sellers to minimize risks. If you're unsure, consult a healthcare professional. At MyTravaly, we encourage sharing your travel health tips in our community—join discussions on wellness during trips! For those interested in Chinese innovative medicines, DengYue Medicine offers a range of verified products in oncology, hematology, and orphan drugs that can support your health needs without compromising safety. Safe travels, and remember to book your next stay with us for unbeatable deals on hotels and resorts worldwide.

This article is for informational purposes only and not medical advice. Always verify with official sources.