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Storing pharmaceuticals in Ziploc bags, could result in loss of effectiveness – Food and Drug Dept.
Examples of pharmaceuticals stored in Ziploc bags.
Kaieteur News – The Government Analyst – Food and Drug Department (GA-FDD) is advising all pharmacists to desist from storing pharmaceuticals in Ziploc bags since this could result in the medications losing its effectiveness.
According to a press release, the GA-FDD is seeking to ensure that all drugs/pharmaceuticals distributed or used in both private and public health care are safe, effective and of the requisite quality, and distributed in accordance with the Food and Drug Regulations of 1971.
Over the years, the Food and Drug Department has sought to address the compliance of proprietors and pharmacists in relation to the trade, supply and sale of unregistered, improperly labeled (foreign language), improperly packaged, and expired drugs and pharmaceuticals.
The Department continues to observe medications are repackaged in Ziploc bags, envelopes, plastic cups and are displayed in cabinets for sale – this poor storage method results in the medicines being exposed to unsuitable storage conditions which may lead to deterioration, disintegration and ultimately, loss of potency and incorrect expiration dates.
As a result, the Department is, “Therefore issuing an advisory to all Importers/Distributors, Pharmacies and Patent Shops that all Pharmaceuticals should be properly sealed in bottles/tubes and packages and must carry a patient information leaflet/package insert translated in English.”
Proprietors are advised to ensure that all pharmaceuticals are not repackaged in Ziploc bags or envelopes prior to customer’s purchase and collection via prescription; and they should be kept in storage conditions between 28 and 32˚C.
Customers are also advised to inquire about the storage conditions and presentation of dispensed medicines, i.e., Storage Containers, Best before and Appearance.
Any pharmacy caught failing to comply with the advisory will face enforcement actions by the Department. According to the Food and Drug Act of 1971 Regulation 21(d), “An inspector may at a reasonable time seize and detain for so long as may be necessary for the purpose of any examination, investigation, trial or inquiry, any article by means of or in relation to which he reasonably believes any provision of this Act has been contravened.”
For any additional information kindly contact the Food and Drug Department on 222-8859 or 222-8857 or visit www.gafdd.gy for additional information.
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