The Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority (ZAMRA) has warned pharmaceutical companies and pharmacies against engaging unqualified individuals to dispense medicines to customers.
ZAMRA Public Relations Officer, Lister Mutukwa, said the trend, commonly reported in some pharmacies, poses a serious risk to public health, as it may result in patients receiving incorrect medication.
Speaking in an interview with RCV News in Lusaka, Ms. Mutukwa stressed that only trained and licensed pharmacists are legally allowed to dispense medicines.
“Reports that some school leavers are attending to customers are very unfortunate as only qualified personnel should dispense medicines to patients,” said Ms. Mutukwa.
Ms. Mutukwa further urged members of the public to report such cases to ZAMRA or the Health Professions Council of Zambia (HPCZ) for quick intervention whenever they suspect unqualified individuals are handling prescriptions.
Angel Kasabo
