Sunday, December 23, 2012

NATIONAL DRUG AUTHORITY TO BAN TABLETS IN TINS

The National Drug Authority is the regulator of drugs and attendant items in the country. It has begun phasing out tablets and capsules in bulk packages in pharmacies and drug shops. Bulk packages will now be reserved for hospital use, while pharmacies and drug shops will be required to stock and dispense tablets and capsules to patients only in blister and strip form.

There are fears though that the price of tablets will rise since the manufacturers and dispensers will have to factor in the additional costs of the blister packs. This could hinder patients accessing drugs. For instance, one tablet of paracetamol commonly known as panadol costs 50 shs but with the adoption of blisters, panadol now goes for 100 shs. But the national drug authority chief explains that the measure will ensure quality healthcare to the public.


The measure takes effect on 1st January 2013 with the exception of a few institutions and heath facilities

A number of people have been caught masquerading as doctors and health workers in private clinics, public health centres and hospitals. As such, patients have fallen prey to poor medication, leaving them sometimes with serious complications. It’s hoped the new measure will help check drug theft and adulterations, especially in public facilities.

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