PMAG advises dealers to heed advice on medicine advertisement ban

Accra, Sept. 4, GNA -- The Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Association of Ghana (PMAG) has implored all stakeholders to heed the directives of the Food and Drugs Board (FDB) as regard the temporary ban of advertisement of pharmaceutical products, herbal medicines, bitters and others over the various media in the country, including those in buses and public places.

In a statement signed by its President, Dr Michael Addo, the Association, said although members depended on adverts and promotions to market their products, it believed public health and safety should be of paramount interest to all.

=93We are aware that the public is unduly attracted to these adverts and promotions. But we are also aware of the health hazards that are associated with abuse and misuse of medicines and herbal preparations which these adverts seek to promote,=94 it said.

The PMAG said the incidence of products advertisements of misleading nature and unsubstantiated and those that make false claims had been on the increase contrary to the code of ethics of the Association. =93Our code of ethics allows the advertisement of products that can be procured over the counter, whose nature and content even have to be approved by the FDB,=94 it added.

While sympathising with the media houses for possible loss of revenue, the Association was of the opinion that the public health consideration should be given priority. The statement expressed hope that a common understanding of the issue would soon be reached to allow the lifting of the temporary ban.