The Tribune

OVER-the-counter (OTC) preparations of codeine phosphate were being misused by members of the general public, according to the Bahamas Pharmacy Council.

Codeine Phosphate tablets are used for the relief of mild to moderate pain and symptoms of a dry cough or diarrhoea.

The council has released its end of term report today, covering July 2012 to July 2013, and said: "It was brought to our attention  that OTC preparations of codeine phosphate were being misused by members of the general public. 

"We have since issued an advisory and press release advising that this product be kept behind the prescription counter and given only on the recommendation of a pharmacist or by prescription.

"We have also requested that the Minister of Health consider restricting the sale of all products containing codeine phosphate to "pharmacy recommended" or "prescription only", as opposed to over the counter."

In her report, Barbara Henderson R. N, Chairman, Bahamas Pharmacy Council, said: "One of the first challenges that the council  undertook was the outstanding and continuing inspections of pharmacies. Four pharmacists from the public sector were appointed as inspectors.  Our inspectors worked diligently to see that all of the pharmacies in Nassau were inspected.   In an effort to assist all pharmacies in meeting the criteria, self inspection forms were posted for download on  our website at pharmacycouncil.net.  Among other things, inspectors looked for pharmacy hours which should be on display, a pharmacy that is secure, narcotics that are locked away,  a policy and procedure manual being available at all times and licenses for all pharmacists on duty should be on display.

 "Since July, inspections have been ongoing and we have found that most pharmacies have been in compliance or with minor infractions.  Those who have had major infractions have been cited and given a time frame to come into compliance. Follow-up inspections are then done to ensure that they are compliant. Further action will be taken against any pharmacy that does not comply.  The Bahamas Pharmacy Council seeks to ensure that the public is getting the best  service by our local professionals.

 "Our  registration committee reports that 9 new pharmacists  and 13 pharmacy technicians have been licensed, 49 pharmacies have been inspected with 9 in Freeport including a manufacturing facility. We expect to inspect 7 pharmacies in the family island during September and all wholesale warehouses are due to be inspected before the year ends.    

 "The council, in an effort to update and educate pharmacists, other health care providers and the general public, have regularly issued alerts and advisories, to  pharmacists, physicians, members of the press and the general public. To subscribe for these alerts visit pharmacycouncil.net

 "One of the concerns that the council has had, is the need to ensure that both prescribers and persons who dispense controlled drugs or narcotics  are keeping proper records, as well as keeping the products properly locked away.  We have issued  alerts to both physicians and pharmacists, reminding them that dispensing of narcotics without recording and reporting to the proper authorities is against the law.

"In an effort to work with The Ministry of Health as they investigate options for product registration in the country, The Bahamas Pharmacy Council has requested that  all  importers of prescription and over the counter drugs, provide to the council, a listing of all products imported during 2012-2013.

 "The data submitted should include the 1. Category of Drug 2. Brand Name 3. Chemical Name 4. Strength 5. Pack Size  6. Manufacturer  5. Country of origin. The Council requests that this information be supplied electronically, preferably in an excel spreadsheet.

 "Importers of pharmaceuticals would include any individual, business, wholesaler, retailer or physician who imports a drug (prescription or over the counter) for sale or distribution to the general public. 

 "The cooperation of these entities would greatly assist us in our goal as we work along with the Ministry of Health towards the process of product registration in the country. Product registration would ultimately assist in ensuring the safety, efficacy and quality of products available in The Bahamas."