The International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) is calling for greater international cooperation, regulation and law enforcement to prevent online drug trafficking.

Reuters reported March 17 that the INCB suggested a variety of measures, including regulatory and legislative action, to prevent Internet sales of controlled substances without a prescription.

Better cooperation between governments also is necessary to combat what has become a global problem, said INCB chief Hamid Ghodse. "Therefore the board decided to provide a framework for coordinated international action and cooperation, elaborating the most essential measures which need to be taken," he said.

The board provided details about the ongoing problem; for example, a U.S. study found only two out of 365 Internet pharmacies required a prescription for purchase of internationally controlled substances.

The fact that children and adolescents can access pharmaceuticals through the anonymity provided by online sales is also a growing concern, Ghodse said.