Many non-certified drugs being sold in Ghana

The Food and Drug Board (FDB) at the weekend expressed concern at the high rate at which non-certified drugs were being advertised in the media.

Some of the drugs both orthodox and traditional herbal preparations are sub standard and in some cases fake and unsafe for human consumption, Kwamena Van Ess, Senior Officer of FDB told journalists in Bolgatanga.

The Board was set up to ensure consumer safety and enhance the health of the people; hence it had laid down certain requirements that should guide the production and distribution of safe food and drugs.

"No person or company shall advertise any product in Ghana, unless they obtain clearance and approval from the FDB and also register the product, "he stated. Other requirements of the Board are; " advertisement for all drugs shall preset information that is reasonably balanced between side effects and contraindications and effectiveness and safety.

"No advertisement for any drugs shall contain any false or misleading information, vague unsubstantiated statements or suggestions of superiority over competing drugs or that the advertised product is a panacea or even more effective or super than is immediately justified.

"No Media house shall carry any advertisement in the print or electronic Media unless prior approval has been granted by the Board. Mr Van Ess and Mr. P. K, Agyeman Duah, of the Kumasi Zonal Office of FOD, are visiting the Upper East Region to interact with bakers, chemical sellers and the public to sensitise them on the safety of their products.