ANANTNAG: On the directions of Deputy Commissioner (DC) Anantnag, Dr Basharat Qayoom, a team of Drug Control Officers of the district under the supervision of Deputy Drug Controller, Nighat Jabeen today undertook a special drive, here.
The drive was held to inspect the pharmaceutical dealers, chemist shops, Jan Aushadhi stores and hospital dispensaries to ensure that the medicines and allied pharmaceutical preparations are being dispensed and distributed for the legitimate requirements only and as per the prescriptions of registered medical practitioners.
During the inspection drive, more than 30 medical sale establishments were inspected in and around the health institutions. The operation of five medical establishments was disallowed for different violations of the provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. Two medical establishments have been served show-cause notices for absence of qualified persons. Legal drug samples of lesser known pharmaceutical companies were taken for analysis.
During the special drive, an awareness program was also conducted whereby the chemists were directed to strictly restrict stocking, sale and distribution of drugs prone to addiction. They were also directed to install CCTV cameras and adopt computerized billing systems within stipulated period so that close vigil is maintained over the sale of aforementioned drugs and to prevent unregulated distribution.
The chemists were briefed regarding the proper stocking, storage conditions, dispensing ways and procedure for refilling of prescriptions.
Later, chemists pledged that they will not indulge in any unethical activity and give due diligence during the dispensing of drugs prone to addiction and allied preparations.
Meanwhile, the DC has emphasized upon all the stakeholders to adhere to the norms strictly and has advocated adopting zero tolerance towards drug/substance abuse. He has appealed to all the stakeholders including members of the civil society as well as enforcement agencies to work in coordination for freeing the district from shackles of drug abuse.