The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has issued an alert about illegal online pharmacies selling counterfeit medications, many of which are laced with dangerous substances like fentanyl and methamphetamine. Consumers are often tricked into believing they are buying legitimate drugs like Oxycodone, Adderall, and Xanax. However, according to the DEA, these fake pills are being sold through websites operated out of countries such as India and the Dominican Republic.

These illegal websites often mimic legitimate platforms by offering features like 24-hour customer service, online reviews, and discounts to deceive customers. The DEA warns that these counterfeit medications pose serious health risks, including ineffective treatment, harmful side effects, and even death.

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In a specific case, a U.S. woman died after purchasing what she thought was oxycodone online. The pills, which looked identical to the real medication, contained fentanyl, leading to her fatal overdose. 

To identify fake pharmacies, the DEA advises against sites selling prescription drugs without requiring a valid prescription, offering unusually low prices, or listing prices in foreign currency. Suspicious packaging or expired medicines are also signs of fraudulent pharmacies.

For those who believe they may have purchased from these illegal sources, the DEA urges immediate cessation of use and reporting to local authorities. The DEA also provided a list of identified fake pharmacy websites and encourages consumers to verify prescriptions through licensed medical providers.

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For more information, visit the [DEA's website](https://www.dea.gov).