Bolgatanga: Mr. Abel Ndego, the Acting Upper East Regional Head of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), clarified the Authority's mission during a recent workshop. He emphasized that the FDA's role is to support business operators in expanding their ventures within the regulatory framework, ensuring public health and safety are prioritized. "As long as we work together to ensure public health and safety, you can always be assured that you will do your business without stress," Mr. Ndego assured pharmacy and Over-The-Counter (OTC) medicine sellers.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Ndego addressed participants at a workshop organized by the FDA to sensitize them on the Authority's guidelines for pharmacy and OTC medicine operators. The workshop aimed to promote public health and safety through responsible retail practices. Mr. Ndego warned that any activities threatening public health and safety would be dealt with by the FDA, urging operators to adhere strictly to legal standards.
He highlighted specific concerns regarding the dispensing of tramadol, a formerly OTC medication now classified as a controlled drug. Mr. Ndego noted that the only tramadol strengths approved by the FDA in Ghana are 50mg and 100mg. There is a complete ban on dispensing any dosage strength above 100mg. He emphasized that pharmacy shops are the only entities accredited to dispense these dosages, which must be provided only to individuals with valid prescriptions from qualified medical officers.
The guidelines approved by Parliament for tramadol regulation are stringent. Prescriptions must include not only the prescriber's name but also their membership number. Any prescription from a prescriber not in good standing is rendered invalid. Mr. Ndego stressed the seriousness of the regulation, noting that the law is becoming increasingly stringent, with prosecution being pushed for in tramadol-related offenses.
Mr. Ndego acknowledged that while the FDA has prosecuted individuals in the past, it is a process they do not enjoy. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a cordial relationship with clients, expressing the FDA's preference for compliance over prosecution.
Participants of the workshop, including Ms. Gloria Akos Amoh, an OTC medicine seller, praised the FDA's initiative. They found the training educative and beneficial for enhancing regulatory compliance. Ms. Amoh specifically mentioned that she gained valuable insights into tramadol regulations and refreshed her memory on existing guidelines, describing the training as impactful.
