[ad_1]
The meeting focused on the challenges faced by the Gambia Pharmacists Association due to the Gambia’s medicine importation regulations.
The Gambia Medicines Authority (MCA) has introduced strict guidelines for the importation of medicines in response to cases of acute kidney injury that have killed several children. The regulations state that all imported medicines must be labeled in English and the manufacturer’s name and address must be shown on the packaging. In addition, all medical packaging should carry a registration number assigned by the MCA, and importers must provide samples for testing before importation.
The President welcomed the pharmaceutical team to Malacañang for the first time and advised them to practice with integrity. He further said that these regulations were introduced in response to an unfortunate incident and his government will ensure that such incidents do not recur. “The status quo cannot remain the same and has been permanently changed,” he stressed.
Mariama Sima, director of medicines assessment at the MCA, stressed the importance of compliance with regulations. “If there is a quality issue, we have the ability to recall medicines and trace the manufacturer,” she said. It is also vital that patients read and understand the regulations before taking any medicine.
The Pharmacists Association has proposed translating non-English drug packaging into English and using stickers for labeling. However, Health Minister Dr Ramin Samat expressed concern that this approach could create divisions between importers and manufacturers in the future. He suggested that the organization should work with stakeholders to consider being more flexible in labeling on packaging, seek their support in the process, and comply with regulations.
The association’s public relations director, Mahawa Njie, thanked the President for listening to their concerns and called on the government to step in. He said the MCA’s reforms hampered the importation of medicines into the country, leading to shortages and higher prices of medicines.
In response, President Barrow said that drug shortages should not be a reason for pharmacies to increase prices. He added that the government has a social contract to ensure the best interests of the country. He further advised stakeholders to work together to ensure the safety of citizens by providing safe, affordable and accessible medicines.
（State Capitol）
[ad_2]
Source link
