- PPB CEO Fred Siyoi has said that chemists which are operating without a name is a key indicator of illegality
- He said such outlets may not meet regulatory standards and could pose health risks as they could be selling unregistered medicines
Image: HANDOUT/FILE
The Pharmacy and Poisons Board has called on the public to stop buying drugs from pharmacies operating without names.
This is even as the board stepped up its crackdown on outlets operating without licenses and registered professionals.
Pharmacy and Poisons Board CEO Fred Siyoi said chemists that are operating without a name are key indicators of illegality.
He said such outlets may not meet regulatory standards and could pose health risks as they could be selling unregistered medicines.
“The board strongly advises the public to exercise caution and only purchase pharmaceuticals from licensed and reputable sources,” Siyoi said.
“For their safety and well-being, the public is urged to verify the legitimacy of pharmaceutical establishments and report any suspicious activities to the board,” he added.
In response to 25 Presidential Directives issued on March 7 aimed at combating illicit brews, alcohol, drug, and substance abuse, the PPB initiated a joint multi-agency operation nationwide.
The operation seeks to audit regulated pharmaceutical entities to ensure compliance with Good Distribution Practices.
Key area of focus include auditing the distribution of narcotic and psychotropic substances to identify, monitor and establish compliance with proper dispensing practices.
The board has so far inspected more than 400 premises and seized 200 cartons of assorted medicines.
“These exhibits are currently pending court proceedings and will be disposed of in accordance with applicable rules and regulations for pharmaceutical disposal,” Siyoi said.
The board has reaffirmed that the operation will continue to complement the efforts of the national government agency spearheaded by the Ministry of Interior to eradicate all illegal pharmaceutical outlets in the country.
The CEO said the collaborative effort with the Interior ministry underscores the board's commitment to curbing unlawful practices in the pharmaceutical sector, ensuring public safety, and upholding regulatory standards.
He said the success of the operation reflects the dedication of the board to maintaining the integrity of the pharmaceutical industry and safeguarding the well-being of citizens.
The board has further called on all registered pharmaceutical practitioners to embrace and stay updated with regulatory provisions governing the prescription and dispensing of controlled medicines.
According to Siyoi, they should also ensure availability of records for review whenever requested by authorised officers.
Additionally, practitioners are advised to comply with labelling requirements as documented under the Pharmacy and Poison Act (CAP 244).