A non-governmental organisation, Foundation for Medication Safety Campaign for Nurses and Healthcare Workers, has warned that counterfeit pharmaceuticals pose a significant threat to global health.
The NGO stated this while noting that counterfeit drugs render disease treatment ineffective, resulting in treatment failures and disease progression.
Founder of the NGO, David Ogunlabi in a statement re-emphasised that World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that more than half of the worldwide drug market is comprised of counterfeit medications, with a majority found in developing nations.
Owolabi further urged the relevant agencies to sanction individuals or entities involved in the production, distribution, or sale of counterfeit medicines to discourage future illicit activities.
“On the occasion of International Nurses’ Day, we call for a coordinated multi-sectoral and government-driven approach that advocates for stringent regulations and policies, anti-counterfeiting laws, rigorous law enforcement, community-based initiatives, partnerships, and investments.
“Innovative and emerging technologies can also play a pivotal role in detecting illicit drug distributions and transactions. Cutting-edge and advancing technologies can also aid in identifying illicit drug distributions and transactions.
“Public awareness initiatives should be heightened to enlighten individuals on the hazards of counterfeit medicines and the significance of procuring medications from reputable sources.
“Medical professionals should undergo training to recognise counterfeit medications and promptly report any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities.
“International collaboration and sharing of information between nations are vital in addressing the global challenge of counterfeit medicines.
“Pharmaceutical companies must enhance their supply chain management systems to prevent the infiltration of counterfeit drugs into the market. Continuous monitoring and surveillance of drug distribution channels is imperative to trace and intercept counterfeit medicines before they reach consumers,” he said.
He further added that “research and development efforts should prioritise the development of state-of-the-art technologies for the verification of medications, ensuring their quality and safety.
“The battle against counterfeit medicines necessitates a collaborative endeavour involving governments, regulatory agencies, healthcare professionals, pharmaceutical corporations, and the general populace to protect public health and well-being.”
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