Approach pharmacists for all information on drugs – Expert

The public have been advised to freely approach any pharmacist closest to them whenever they need information or counseling concerning drugs or medicines. Chairman of the Abuja branch of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Mrs  Otote Bridget Aladi,  gave the advise during an interview with Daily Trust in Abuja. She said people should approach […]

The public have been advised to freely approach any pharmacist closest to them whenever they need information or counseling concerning drugs or medicines.
Chairman of the Abuja branch of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Mrs  Otote Bridget Aladi,  gave the advise during an interview with Daily Trust in Abuja.
She said people should approach pharmacists for information because they were trained on how to handle drugs and know how to counsel on everything related to drugs which other health practitioners do not know.
“When it comes to drugs, the pharmacist is the expert. He also teaches the doctors, nurses and all other health professionals about drugs. So for information on usage, handling and the dispensing of all drugs, ask your pharmacist. You can tell him or her about your medical condition or any drug you are taking and the pharmacist would give you free counseling. Pharmacists are always willing to avail you of their professional knowledge and do not charge consultation fee,” she said.
Otote said the theme of this year’s World Pharmacists Day which is “Pharmacists : Caring for you”  is apt adding that the public should note that pharmacists are caring people  and should have confidence in them. 
She said pharmacists need to be ethical in practice all the time because any mistake on the part of the pharmacist or manufacturer could lead to loss of several lives.
She said the association has commenced work on a four level structure which will house its secretariat, guest house and shops when completed.
Idris Pada, the immediate past deputy president North of the society and an unofficial member, said pharmacists should no longer be seen as just people in the cubicle handing out medicines but experts who care for people’s holistic wellbeing.
According to him, pharmacists were moving away from just the product dependent and oriented scientist to a patient care giving scientist.
Pada called on government to address challenges around forex in the country so that pharmaceutical manufacturers can access raw materials and avert drug shortage.