PCN To Digitise Drug Distribution In Nigeria

In a bid to ensure effective monitoring, the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) is set to computerize the entire drug distribution system in the county.

The Chairman, PCN Governing Council, Prof. Ahmed Mora, disclosed this while briefing journalists on happenings in the PCN, after the 41st regular meeting of the Governing Council, in Abuja.

He said discussions were already ongoing with relevant authorities for the creation of ICT department for the PCN to monitor drug distribution in the entire country.

According to Mora, the development was necessary because the PCN is responsible for the licensing of pharmaceutical premises, where pharmaceutical activities take place, and therefore, should know how these pharmaceutical products move, so that in case of bad formulation, they can be recalled easily through the internet.

It is rare to have a conversation in Nigeria about the problem of falsified medicine without a mention of the My Pikin syrup tragedy.

In 2009, 84 children were killed by a batch of teething syrup that contained diethylene glycol, an industrial solvent and ingredient found in antifreeze and brake fluid. Two employees from the company which made the syrup were found guilty by a court.

Analysts and stakeholders say it is a welcome development in tackling the counterfeit pharmaceutical industry as law enforcement agencies battle to crackdown on foreign-linked criminal syndicates.