THE Health Ministry says routine inspections will be done at pharmacies across Trinidad regarding counterfeit drugs.
In a release on Friday, the Ministry stated it has received a preliminary report from its Chemistry, Food and Drugs Division regarding an alleged find of counterfeit drugs in Trinidad.
The Health Ministry stated, “As a result, the Ministry has ramped up its regulatory function in accordance with the Food and Drugs Act, the Dangerous Drugs Act and other related legislation.
“This function includes the inspection and seizure of counterfeit pharmaceuticals from retail and wholesale outlets, where required.
“In addition to the Ministry’s ongoing, routine inspection schedule, additional inspections will be conducted in pharmacies throughout Trinidad with immediate effect.”
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The release added that the Ministry of Health will continue to liaise with the relevant stakeholders on this matter, including the Pharmacy Board of Trinidad and Tobago and the Trinidad and Tobago Chamber of Industry and Commerce.
It also reminded the public that due diligence should be taken when consuming or purchasing pharmaceutical products for themselves or others. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins and herbal products.
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When purchasing pharmaceutical products, consumers are also advised to ensure the following:
- The product is not expired;
- All labels are printed in English;
- The bottle or packaging is sealed and has not been tampered with;
- There is no unusual odour or colouration to the product;
- The product has no other abnormality.
The Health Ministry has advised that any member of the public who believes that he/she may have purchased counterfeit pharmaceutical products is strongly advised not to use the product and to contact the Office of the Drug Inspectorate at 625-6049 and 627-0046 or the Chemistry Food and Drugs Division at 623-5242.
