In an effort to thwart counterfeit Tamiflu (oseltamivir phosphate), Roche has released practical guidelines outlining a number of steps patients can take to protect themselves, along with information resources and Web site links. The new recommendations provide specific information and tools to help patients avoid purchasing fake Tamiflu, identify the genuine medication, and act with caution if suspicions arise. The recommendations (available at www.tamiflu.com) include the following:

•How to avoid purchasing counterfeit drugs—Patients should exercise caution when purchasing medications on-line, be wary of offers to sell medications without a valid prescription, and purchase them only from a licensed pharmacy.

•How to identify authentic Tamiflu—Tamiflu comes in a white cardboard box, which contains a single blister package with 10 capsules. Each capsule is a distinctive yellow and light grey and is printed with the words "Roche 75 mg."

•Where to obtain information related to counterfeiting—Individuals should identify licensed pharmacies, obtain counterfeit drug alerts, and report suspicious product or retailers to the proper authorities.