At the 4th Uganda Pharma Healthcare Exhibition, health experts stressed the urgency of pharmacovigilance in ensuring drug safety and combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
Officials from the Uganda National Drug Authority (NDA) and the Ministry of Health (MoH) highlighted the need for better drug monitoring and responsible antibiotic use.
Pharmacovigilance: A Regulatory Priority
Dr. Julius Mayengo, NDA’s Manager of Pharmacovigilance, emphasized regulatory oversight. “We visit health facilities to educate them on pharmacovigilance, using tools, forms, and a toll-free line to collect feedback from health workers and the public,” he explained.
Manufacturers must implement vigilance systems to track products from distribution to assessment and compare safety reports locally and globally, he added.
Pharmacovigilance and AMR
Harriet Akello, Senior Pharmacist at MoH, warned about self-medication. “Seven in ten Ugandans take medicine without professional consultation, often choosing pharmacies over doctors due to cost,” she said.
She called for infection prevention, antimicrobial stewardship, and public awareness. Parliament should secure funding for AMR research and alternative treatments.
The Need for Drug Safety Reporting
Dr. Tabatuka Rodney, MoH Principal Pharmacist, stressed adverse drug reaction reporting. “If enough reports highlight severe side effects, we must act, even if a drug is effective,” he urged.
Responsible Antibiotic Use
Dr. Miriam Butero of C-Care Uganda noted AMR’s growing threat, with over 50,000 outpatients monthly. “We must educate the public on responsible antibiotic use and ensure correct dosages among health workers,” she said.
She urged stricter regulations on over-the-counter antibiotic sales. “Some countries have strict controls; Uganda needs similar measures to prevent misuse.”
The Way Forward
Experts called for stronger pharmacovigilance, regulation, and public education. They urged policymakers, researchers, and regulatory agencies to collaborate in tackling AMR and ensuring drug safety in Uganda.