The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) plans to train numerous pharmacists nationwide to tackle self-medication, combat the growing threat of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) from antibiotic overuse, and monitor adverse drug reactions, officials announced on Wednesday.
This decision follows findings showing that approximately 76% of Islamabad university students resort to self-medication due to convenience and the perception of their ailments being minor. In Karachi, a community-based study revealed that about 63% of respondents practiced self-medication, primarily using analgesics, antipyretics, and antibiotics.
Today, DRAP and the Pakistan Pharmacists Association (PPA) inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to train pharmacists nationwide, aiming to improve medicine quality, eradicate self-medication, and combat AMR,” stated Sardar Shabbir Ahmed, President of PPA, speaking to The News.
The MoU, endorsed by the Executive Councils of PPA and DRAP, was signed by Asim Rauf, CEO of DRAP, and Sardar Shabbir Ahmed.
This MoU aims to strengthen the technical skills of pharmacists across different facets of the healthcare system,” remarked Sardar Shabbir.
He further mentioned that PPA will arrange seminars, workshops, and symposia to build capacity, with DRAP supplying technical support.
“Pharmacists in Pakistan have a vital role in the healthcare system, overseeing the production of quality-assured therapeutic products, managing supply chains, and dispensing,” he emphasized, highlighting their clinical responsibility in enhancing patient outcomes and monitoring adverse drug reactions through Pharmacovigilance.
“The primary objective of PPA is to enhance pharmacists’ knowledge, and in partnership with DRAP, we have organized events to elevate pharmaceutical quality and professional practices,” added Sardar Shabbir.
