Nigerian government admits widespread codeine abuse, announces new measures
The Nigerian government has placed immediate ban on the importation of codeine containing syrup to Nigeria. Codeine is the main active ingredients in the preparation of cough syrup. The ban came following the incessant reported cases of the abuse of codeine predominantly among the youth.
Health minister, Professor Isaac Adewole announced the ban in Abuja. According to him, codeine should be replaced with dextromethorphan which is a less addictive ingredient. The minister directed relevant agencies, Pharmaceutical Council of Nigeria and NAFDAC to supervise the recall for labeling and audit of all codeine containing cough syrups in the country. He added that syrup containing codeine can no longer be purchased in Nigeria without a doctor’s prescription.
The minister revealed that NAFDAC had an emergency meeting with Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Group (PGMAN) to inform them of the latest development regarding the embargo for registration of syrup containing codeine as well as the decision of the health ministry to abolish application for renewal.
He urged the Pharmaceutical Council of Nigeria (PCN) to step up its enforcement activities at pharmacies, patent and proprietary medicine vendors’ shops and outlets nationwide.
For NAFDAC, Adewole urged the agency to step up its functions of regulating, controlling the manufacturing, distribution and the sales of drugs, inspection at the point of entry of drugs, drug products and foods for compliance.
To aid effective implementation of existing Acts, regulations, policies and guidelines on codeine control and usage, Professor Adewole called for collaboration and synergy among FMOH, PCN, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Nursing and Widwivery Council of Nigeria (NMCN).
He called for synergy among these agencies to increase pharmacovigilance around codeine, tramadol and other related substances of abuse.
NAFDAC on his part has developed IEC materials that will be used in a planned national campaign against drug abuse and awareness programme that includes Young Pharmacist Group of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria.
The Federal Government through Federal Ministry of Health is planning to partner with National Orientation Agency, Nigeria Football Federation, football celebrities, members of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, performing Musicians of Nigeria and other celebrities to drive national campaign against drug abuse.