Pharmaceutical Society calls for strict monitoring to curb opioids abuse

The Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana is calling for stricter regulations. They want better monitoring to address opioid abuse among youth.

Opioid addiction is a serious public health issue in Ghana. Reports show an increase in the illegal sale of painkillers like tramadol and codeine. This abuse leads to severe health problems, including addiction and mental disorders. It can also cause organ damage and fatalities.

Dr. Richmond Adusa-Poku spoke on Eyewitness News on Citi FM on March 31. He is a member of the Executive Committee of the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana. He urged the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) and Pharmacy Council to enhance their oversight.

He expressed concern about unlicensed pharmacies selling high doses of opioids. The 225 mg “street red” variant is particularly alarming, he said. This situation is completely unacceptable.

Pharmacists maintain a "dangerous drugs book" for tracking opioid sales. The FDA has policies requiring separate records for opioids. These measures help monitor how opioids are sold.

Dr. Adusa-Poku mentioned that some pharmacies sell dangerous street red variants at high strengths. He called for collaboration with Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC) officers to investigate these sources further.

For more impactful news, join the Citi Newsroom channel on WhatsApp:
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaCYzPRAYlUPudDDe53x
Stay informed with stories that matter!