The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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The Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) has started using advanced Near Infrared Technology (NIR), called Pillscan, to improve medicine quality control.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the PPB explained that the new technology will enhance its quality control by detecting substandard and counterfeit drugs, ensuring that medicines are safe, effective, and of high quality.
The implementation, which began on Monday, December 9, involves retraining staff with the help of software engineers from Global Health Labs USA and qualifying the necessary equipment.
Additionally, the process includes creating a detailed library to support the technology’s use.
To maximize the effectiveness of the new system, training was provided to PPB staff, county pharmacists, and KEMSA personnel, according to the PPB.
The Board highlighted that the technology will strengthen surveillance of Kenya’s pharmaceutical market and safeguard public health, ultimately benefiting the people of Kenya.
The PPB will also use the tool for on-site screening of medical products at regional offices and key entry points before distribution.
This move comes as the Board continues to recall medications across the country due to safety concerns, incorrect labeling, or other issues.
The recalls have raised questions about the safety measures ensuring the public uses safe medications.
Recently, the PPB issued a warning against using the cancer drug Flurasted 500 from batch number HHP24017 due to safety concerns.
In a post on X Thursday, the Board urged the public to stop using the drug immediately and report any related issues.
The Board’s CEO, Fred Siyoi, explained that a complaint about the drug’s appearance prompted the recall.
The PPB has also recalled Efinox medicine from batch numbers 82979 and 82978 due to a labeling error.
