Some Zimbabwean wholesale pharmaceutical operators had their licenses revoked after the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) discovered that they were illegally exporting Histalix D, a locally manufactured cough syrup product. to Zambia and Mozambique,
By Kuda Pembere
Addressing a press conference on Monday MCAZ Head Licencing and Enforcement Division Mrs Caroline Dandira-Samatanga noted that the revokement of licenses or permits was part of its contributions to the fight against drug and substance abuse.
“MCAZ’s primary responsibility is to regulate medicines and medical devices in Zimbabwe. Through our robust regulatory framework, we ensure that only safe, effective, and quality medicines are available on the market.
“By doing so, we aim to prevent the circulation of counterfeit drugs and unregistered substances that can contribute to drug abuse.
“In this regard, the Authority, has revoked 6 permits for wholesale dealers and cancelled 4 persons licences who were promoting abuse of Histalix, a locally produced cough mixture containing codeine, by illegally selling it at Mbare and places likes Chitungwiza and others were exporting to Zambia and Mozambique,” she said.
She also said they have in place mechanisms to contain the availability of codeine containing medicines by making it accessible via prescription.
“The Authority has put in place mechanism to control availability of codeine containing medicines by making the prescription preparations. This means that they cannot be dispensed without the provision of a valid prescription. However, the Authority notes with concern that over-the-counter medicines from other countries are continuously being imported illegally,” the MCAZ official said.
She added, “In addition to our regulatory role, MCAZ actively collaborates with other government agencies and partners in implementing strategies aimed at preventing drug abuse. The Authority works closely with law enforcement agencies to combat illicit drug trafficking and ensure strict adherence to regulations governing controlled substances.”
The Authority has had five meetings with the legal and law enforcement agencies sensitizing them on the regulation of medicines.
“MCAZ is working with various stakeholders, including the Police, CID Drugs, National Prosecutors, ZIMRA and Port health officials to educate them on the entry of these drugs through our ports of entry or illegal channels. The Authority, hold trainings with these stakeholders on regular basis and has had five (5) trainings in various provinces this year in Masvingo, Beitbridge, Zvishavane, Victoria falls and Mutare. Police regularly confiscate some of these cough syrups, and we assist them in writing statements that have penalties,” Mrs Dandira-Samatanga said.
MCAZ acknowledged how the drug and substance abuse has become a public health threat in Zimbabwe.
“Drug abuse is a complex issue that affects individuals, families, and communities across Zimbabwe. It poses serious threats to public health, social stability, and economic development.
“MCAZ acknowledges that addressing this challenge requires a comprehensive approach involving various stakeholders, including government agencies, healthcare professionals, civil society organizations, and the public. The Authority is honoured to be part of the Technical Committee set up by Government of Zimbabwe which is mandated to come up with strategies to combat the vice of Drugs and Substance Abuse,” said the Authority’s Head Licencing and Enforcement Division.
Adept Pharmaceutical, Bestpharm Pharmaceutical, Action 24 Medical Supplies as well as Murity Pharmaceuticals had their permits revoked and these companies’ directors and supervisors were banned from operating.
