Falsified and Substandard Medicines in Africa - Part 2

Keywords:

Uganda Cancer Institute, counterfeit medicines, cancer treatment, pharmacy, drug supply chain, National Drug Authority, oncology, healthcare, patient safety, medicine quality

Summary:

In this conversation, Dr. Benjamin Mwesige, a pharmacist and head of research at the Uganda Cancer Institute, discusses the challenges and strategies involved in ensuring the quality of cancer medicines in Uganda. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration with the National Drug Authority and the necessity for rigorous monitoring of the supply chain to combat counterfeit medicines. The conversation also touches on the historical context of the Uganda Cancer Institute and the evolving role of pharmacists in cancer care.

Takeaways:

• The Uganda Cancer Institute has undergone significant evolution since its inception in 1967.

• Pharmacists play a crucial role in monitoring the quality of cancer medicines.

• Counterfeit medicines pose a significant risk to patient safety.

• Collaboration with the National Drug Authority is essential for ensuring the quality of medicine.

• The supply chain for cancer medicines in Uganda faces numerous challenges.

• Stringent regulatory authorities are vital for importing quality medicines.

• Active ingredient assays are necessary to verify the potency of cancer drugs.

• The cost of cancer medicines can influence the prevalence of counterfeits.

• Direct relationships with manufacturers can improve the quality of medicine.

• Ongoing discussions with regulatory bodies can enhance the quality assurance process.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to the Uganda Cancer Institute

02:17 The Role of Pharmacists in Cancer Treatment

04:08 Supply Chain Challenges in Cancer Medicine

06:33 Counterfeit Medicines and Their Impact

08:39 Collaboration with the National Drug Authority

10:51 Final Thoughts and Future Directions

Recommended Reading:

Substandard anticancer medications in clinical care settings and private pharmacies in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic pharmaceutical investigation

Acknowledgements:

We gratefully acknowledge Joe Brancato's generosity in allowing us to use his original composition, "Extraordinary People," as the soundtrack for the podcast.