WINNER, 2019, 2018 & 2017 NIGERIAN HEALTHCARE MEDIA EXCELLENCE AWARD NOVEMBER 2019 Vol. 41 No.11
19791979-2019 - 2019 UninterruptedUninterrupted MonthlyMonthly PublicationPublication
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L-R:Pharm. (Mazi) Sam Ohuabunwa, president, PSN; Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi, chairman of the occasion; Pharm. (Sir) Ifeanyi Atueyi, founder/MD, Pharmanews Limited; and Chief Bunmi Olaopa, president, Great Ife Pharmacy Alumni Association (GIPAA) during the celebration of Pharmanews 40th anniversary and 80th birthday of Sir Atueyi at Sheba Event Centre, Lagos on 1 October. How I’ve confronted major pharmacy issues in my first year as PSN president – Ohuabunwa By Yusuff Moshood he last 12 months of the new of Nigeria (PSN) has said. ensuring greater participation PSN leadership has been Speaking with Pharmanews in of pharmacists in the affairs of Ta period of learning about an exclusive interview at his office Pharmacy and that of the PSN. Pharmacy and its challenges and in Lagos on what he had focused on Ohuabunwa further said that providing certain changes that will in the first year of his presidency, the the greatest achievement of his help take the pharmacy profession PSN president said the last one year first year as president of PSN was in the country to where it should had been an opportunity to confront being able to mobilise support be, Pharm. (Mazi) Sam Ohuabunwa, the major isues of Pharmacy, noting in and out of Pharmacy to shut president, Pharmaceutical Society that it had also been a period of continued on page 19
40 YEARS OF UNINTERRUPTED MONTHLY PUBLICATION (1979-2019) 2 Personality of the Month Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 r Kingsley Chiedu Amibor is the national chairman, Association of Hospital and DAdministrative Pharmacists of Nigeria (AHAPN) Sir Ifeanyi Atueyi and deputy director FPSN, FPCPharm, FNAPharm, FNAPPSA, DFPEFON, FNIM of Pharmaceutical Publisher Services (DDPS), 08033015991 Federal Medical Centre, Dozie David Atueyi Asaba, Delta State. Executive Editor He was born to the 07038576107 family of late Mr Joel Yusuff Moshood Iwebunor Amibor and Editor Mrs Christianah Adafor 08055212962 Amibor on 17t October, Ola Aboderin 1964 in Ubulu-Uku, Sub-Editor Aniocha South Local 07033179360 Government Area of Moses Dike Delta State. Business Development Manager In October 1983, 08028396755 Amibor secured admission to the Temitope Obayendo Online Editor University of Benin 08026748215 to study Pharmacy, graduating with Second Class (Honours) in 1987. He Adebayo Folorunsho-Francis Senior Correspondent then had the mandatory one year internship at the Edo 07039091674 State Hospitals Management Board, Benin City, from 1987 to 1988, and National Youth Service programme (NYSC) Adebayo Oladejo from 1988 to 1989 at the Nigerian National Medical Centre Reporter 08037648465 (NNPC) Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Amibor’s career began at Glaxo Pharmaceuticals Plc, Matthew Anani in 1990, where he rose from medical representative to field Advert Manager 08038572215 sales manager. In 1996, he joined Encristo Pharmaceutical Industries, Enugu, as marketing manager/superintendent Chidi Julius Ozoemena pharmacist. In January, 2001, he decided it was time to Advert Executive 08066103671 serve his fatherland in a different capacity, and joined the services of the Federal Ministry of Health (FMOH), Peter Ogbonna specifically, the Federal Medical Centre Asaba, where Advert Executive he rose from senior pharmacist to his current position of 08137814813 deputy director of pharmaceutical services (DDPS). Elizabeth Amuneke While in Enugu, Amibor pursued a course of study Admin. Manager in Marketing Management at the University of Nigeria, 08057235128 Enugu Campus (UNEC). Additionally, his flair for learning Chinedu Udeanyim saw him going back to the University of Benin to pursue Accountant the Doctor of Pharmacy Degree (PharmD) which he 07066300374 obtained in January, 2009. Chiazor Juliet Okeke Amibor is an accomplished unionist. His unionism Subscription Officer career started in 2006, when he was elected chairman, 08134835525 Association of Hospital and Administrative Pharmacists Inspiration Solomon Ojigbo of Nigeria (AHAPN) Federal Medical Centre, Asaba IT Officer Chapter. Keep away from people working. Romanticise 08104754846 In 2015, he contested and won election as national who try to belittle your authenticity instead of vice chairman of AHAPN, a position he held for three Omolola Famodun ambitions. Small people perfection.” ― G.G. Digital Marketing Executive years. In August 2018, driven by passion to serve his Renee Hill 09025637371 chosen profession, he decided to contest for the office of always do that, but the national chairman, the highest office in AHAPN. A contest really great make you Andy Benson-Idima feel that you, too, can “Participate in your Graphic Artist he won after a tedious campaign. 08037151780 Amibor is a winner of several awards, including the become great.” ― Mark dreams today. There are Pharmaceutical Association of Nigerian Students (PANS) Twain unlimited opportunities CORRESPONDENCE: available with this new All correspondence on editorial UNIBEN Award for Excellence in Leadership (2018), matters should be directed to: Distinguished Service Award (DSA) of AHAPN National. “The mark of a day. Take action on The Editor-08055212962 Amibor is married, with children. great man is one who those wonderful dreams knows when to set aside you’ve had in your mind Enquiries on advertisements should be directed to: The the important things in for so long. Remember, Advert Manager-07068129728 order to accomplish the success is something Only NAFDAC- approved advert Celebrating vital ones.” ― Brandon you experience when materials are accepted . Sanderson you act accordingly.” ― SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION 1. Subscription rate for 12 editions is Steve Maraboli N10,000 including postage within Nigeria. 4040 YearsYears “Grow your talents 2. Single copy costs =N=1,000.00 (without and skills through a “Remember, postage) 3. Payment to be made directly to Zenith of Uninterrupted consistent practice and happiness doesn’t Bank Plc. A/c No: 1010701673 progressive learning. depend upon who you 4. You can also pay through portal, simply Monthly Publication Learn to relearn and are or what you have; visit: http://login.remita.net/remita/ external/PHARMANEWS/collector/ unlearn. Raise the bar it depends solely upon 5. After payment text us the bank deposit (1979 - 2019) for yourself always.” ― what you think. So start slip number, your full name, contact address Israelmore Ayivor each day by thinking of and e-mail. No one regrets advertising in Pharmanews For subscription enquiry, call 08134835525 all the things you have ISSN 0331-815X “Keep going, even to be thankful for. Your Pharmanews Limited when the going is slow future will depend very 8 Akinwunmi Street, Mende, follow us on linkedin @Pharmanews limited largely on the thoughts Maryland, Lagos and uncertain. Make P.O.Box 2213, Ikeja like us on facebook.com/pharmanewsltd your dream your prayer you think today. So think Tel: 08057235128, 08055212962. thoughts of hope and follow us on twitter@pharmanewsltd and your service. Don’t E-mail: [email protected], wait for recognition. confidence and love [email protected] Website: www.pharmanewsonline.com follow us on instagram.com/pharmanewsltd. Let it find you and success.” ― Dale Carnegie
Celebrating 40 Years of Uninterrupted Monthly Publication (1979-2019) } years Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 } Editorial 3
n 1 October, Pharmanews Moreover, the place of passion Limited celebrated its Pharmanews historic in deciding one’s career path, 40th anniversary and Oth creating a reputation of integrity the 80 birthday of its founder and remaining focused amidst and managing director, Sir 40th anniversary oppositions, distractions Ifeanyi Atueyi at a memorable and adversities is of utmost ceremony in Lagos. The event importance in benefitting from was graced by family members, month since May 1979 without of whom were honoured with missing an edition. Considering awards by the management of the Pharmanews’ example. friends and associates of Sir Pharmacists can indeed Atueyi, as well a huge number of the mortality rate of periodicals Pharmanews, added colour and generally and health prestige to the event. set good examples to others captains and stakeholders in the within and outside their pharmaceutical industry. publications in particular, the The success story of celebration was for all intents , which has become industry on innovative and Although the Pharmanews Pharmanews strategic thinking, as well as journal actually clocked and purposes worthwhile. not just the flagship journal of The importance of building the pharmaceutical sector but the possibility of succeeding 40 years of uninterrupted without taking shortcuts or monthly publication in May good relationships, through the health sector, has multi- commitment to selflessness, dimensional implications and delving into unethical practices 2019, the decision to mark the or outright illegalities. By anniversary on 1 October was honesty, integrity, genuine lessons for diverse categories interest in the needs of others of individuals and businesses, making the satisfaction to combine it with the birthday of its partners a cardinal of the founder, Sir Atueyi. This and consistency in offering especially in the pharmaceutical value-added services in sector. Pharmacists must objective and center-point of decision was a fitting reflection its operations, Pharmanews of the interconnectedness of the business, was also brought to the strive to think out of the box fore through the massive turnout and not confine themselves has risen from being the story of Pharmanews with that leading pharmaceutical health of the life of Sir Atueyi. of well-wishers for the October to the conventional roles that event and the overwhelming academic knowledge assigns to publication in Nigeria and West The anniversary celebration Africa to being a global health was indeed a momentous support received from within them. Service to the profession and outside the country. In and to humanity, as a whole, journal with a strong online avenue to affirm the power of presence and a first choice for divine grace and providence particular, the turnout of major which was a factor in Sir Atueyi’s players in the pharmaceutical foray into pharmaceutical players in the industry whenever – to which Sir Atueyi attributes they want to disseminate health much of his success – as well as industry at the memorable journalism, must be prioritised anniversary celebration, 50 above monetary gratifications. and pharmaceutical information to highlight the indispensability to their various publics. of purpose, focus, determination While Pharmanews is a and unwavering faith in God in The success story of Pharmanews, which has become great example to follow for achieving success and fulfilling not just the flagship journal of the pharmaceutical those desirous of going into destiny. Indeed, as Sir Atueyi sector but the health sector, has multi-dimensional health journalism, it must also revealed at the event and implications and lessons for diverse categories be noted that the journal itself particularly in his autobiography, of individuals and businesses, especially in the must continue to evolve in “My Life and Pharmanews” pharmaceutical sector. Pharmacists must strive to tandem with the dynamic needs which was launched on the think out of the box and not confine themselves to the of its readers and partners. It same anniversary day, the must also continue to build the journal had to surmount a conventional roles that academic knowledge assigns to them. competencies needed to sustain myriad of challenges to be its role as a leader in health consistently published every information dissemination.
Pharmanews App now available on Google Play store, Apple Store, Windows Store } 4 }Reflection Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 How rich are you? By Sir Ifeanyi Atueyi ou may have all the wealth and serving others selflessly. Add you can possibly acquire - value to people’s lives and show Yincluding expensive cars, gratitude to those who help you in houses, lots of investments and one way or the other. assets - but still not feel rich Remember that God is the enough. Definitely, there is a Giver of all good and perfect gifts missing link. That missing link is (James 1:17). He will never give how you think. If you don’t think His children any blessing that you’re rich, you are not rich. will ultimately derail His purpose Proverbs 23:7 says, “For as he for them or too much for them thinketh in his heart, so is he.” to handle. He is interested in the You become rich when you prosperity of His people. It is His have the mind-set of abundance. pleasure that His children have You attract the feeling of joy, peace, good health, and that abundance when you are happy their real needs supplied. with yourself, with what you have Don’t have a get- OUR PARTNERS and actually enjoy them. Norman rich-quick mentality. Vincent Peale said, “If you paint Have the grace to let Adler Products Ltd in your mind a picture of bright wealth grow like a Afrab-Chem Ltd and happy expectations, you plant. It should not Agewell Healthcare Ltd. put yourself into a condition be like a mushroom Alpha Pharmacy and Stores Ltd conducive to your goal.” that grows AL-Tinez Pharma Ltd Limited thoughts create limited overnight only to Artemis Life Sciences lives and limited success. die soon after. The Biomedical Ltd What are your successful life is Bond Chemical Industies Ltd expectations? If you expect not a quick-fix. It Clearlink Services Nig Ltd positive outcomes, most does not happen Dana Drugs Limited often they will overnight. It is a not Dortemag Ventures Ltd come to pass. an event but a Dovizia Pharma Services If you expect process. This is Drugfield Pharmaceuticals Ltd negative why people Elbe Pharma Nigeria Ltd outcomes, they who win Emzor Pharmaceuticals Ltd will also show lotteries do Euromed Ltd up. In computer not usually Expharlab Ltd language, we sustain Fidson Healthcare Plc say, “Garbage their Geneith Pharmaceuticals Ltd in, garbage wealth. Getz Pharma out.” Therefore, Getting Goldmoore International Ltd it is better rich Jawa International Ltd to create an through JB Pharmaceuticals Ltd attitude of Juhel Nigeria Ltd expectation from life, which has gambling, football pools and Labeta Drugs Ltd endless opportunities. Thinking lotteries is usually not enduring. Lotus Technicals of inadequacy comes from poor It has been observed that the Mark Pharmaceuticals Ltd thinking, which takes richness poor and middle income earners Massilia Motors away from your life. spend a lot of their hours in May & Baker Nigeria Plc If you want to count your front of the TV while rich people Maydon Pharmaceuticals Ltd riches, never just count only continuously read and learn. They Mega Lifesciences Nigeria Ltd the money and assets you have. are interested in making money Micro Nova Pharmaceuticals Ltd Consider the blessings and and investing. Comparing your Miraflash Nigeria Ltd benefits money cannot buy. Just material possessions with your Nancil Nigeria Ltd think of lives you’re positively neighbours’ will not make you Neros Pharmaceuticals Ltd touching. Think of the value richer. Instead, it can bring you New Heights Pharmaceuticals people have for your life. How poverty mentality. Oculus Pharmacare Ltd do people feel at the mention of It is always better to look Olpharm Nigeria Ltd your name? What legacy are you inwards for God’s blessings in Orange Drugs Ltd leaving? your life. When you do that, you Pemason Pharmaceuticals Ltd A truly rich person may not will always be grateful to God. Phamatex (Nig.) Ltd necessarily have the best things This attitude of gratitude brings Phamatex Industries Ltd in life but he makes the best use greater blessings. Pharma Ethics Ltd of whatever he has. He actually Above all, do not love money Pharmacists Council of Nigeria enjoys life. You don’t have to wear which is the root of all evil. When Pharma-Deko Plc the most expensive wristwatch, money is loved and accumulated Pinnacle Health Pharmaceutical Ltd shoes, rings or drive the most beyond measure, the owner will Ranbaxy Nigeria Ltd expensive cars. In fact, a study of never be satisfied. He will still Reals Pharmaceutical Ltd the lifestyle of many millionaires want more and more. Sagar Vitaceuticals Nigeria Ltd shows that they don’t indulge Bear in mind also that lack of Shalina Healthcare Nigeria Ltd on those luxuries. They live a money is a major cause of the evils Swiss Pharma Nig Ltd simple life and take care of little we have in the society today. A lot Talamus Health things. They are not wasteful or of crimes today are associated Therapeutic Laboratories (Nig.) Ltd ostentatious. But they know and with poverty. Thompson & Grace Pharmaceutical Ltd believe they are rich. It has been What is richer than God’s Tricare Pharma Ltd found that millionaires don’t even blessings and benefits? Psalm Unique Pharmaceuticals Ltd wear varieties of clothes. 103:3-5 asks you not to forget such Vinco Pharmaceuticals Nig Ltd If you want to feel truly rich, benefits - forgiveness of your Vitabiotics (Nig) Ltd start counting all the things you sins, redeeming you from hell, Vixa Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd can have which money cannot crowning you with love and mercy, World Wide Commercial Ventures buy. If you want to enjoy a life of wrapping you with goodness and true abundance, seek peace of renewing your youth. Thanks for your patronage mind, joy of living, helping, giving
Celebrating 40 Years of Uninterrupted Monthly Publication (1979-2019) } years Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 }Goodwill Message 5 Congratulations to Sir 80 hearty cheers to Atueyi and Pharmanews - Atueyi – Orange Group Olisaemeka ongratulations to eight On behalf of the entire staff decades of fife! What a and Board of Directors of Orange ne crowded hour of a the Healthcare Media Excellence momentous celebration. Group, we wish you, our dearest glorious life is worth an Award (Print) of the NHEA for 2017, C You have accomplished so Director, a happy 80th birthday. Oage without a name. With 2018 and 2019. much and continue to be a great Signed by joyful hearts, we felicitate with As the external auditors and example of wisdom, humility, Sir Tony Ezenna Sir Ifeanyi Atueyi on the occasion tax consultants of the company leadership and foresight. As you Chairman and CEO, of his birthday, turning 80 on 1 for over 10 years, we are glad to celebrate this great milestone, Orange Group October. Your life, which is full of witness these great attainments we pray that you are blessed splendour, grandeur and candour, and celebrations. We attest to the with love, health, and happiness is worthy of emulation. We bless high quality management, the for many more years to come. God for the good health, strength crop of hard working staff and the We wish you an 80th birthday and vision. quality fellowships that bind them filled with love from family and We also rejoice with together. Pharmanews Ltd., the global friends, moments you will never health journal, for turning 40. Long live Sir Ifeanyi Atueyi! forget and great memories. The elegance, brilliance and Thank you for the many years magnificence of your production Long live Pharmanews Ltd!! of service to Orange Drugs. has earned you recognitions and As one of our directors, your special awards, including the Long live the Management leadership and direction are annual Sir Ifeanyi Atueyi essay and Staff!!! truly invaluable. Thank you for and debate competitions in your hard work and dedication, Nigerian universities, as well as and for being a selfless leader. Victor T. Olisaemeka FCA Leaders like you are few and far between, hence we wish you Legendary prosperity, health and longevity. milestones ongratulations, Sir, on the triple celebration of your 80th CBirthday, 40th Anniversary of Pharmanews and the launch of your book, titled “My Life and Pharmanews”. These events are legendary in every sense of it. Time and space will not permit me to talk on each of the events separately, but I am particularly thankful to God for your life at 80. Birthdays present opportunities to remind loved ones of how much they are valued and held in high esteem. Your rolling out the drums to celebrate your 80th birthday is heart-warming and a recognition of God’s immense goodness to you. As an entrepreneur and professional of high repute, you have made remarkable contributions to the field of Pharmacy, a profession you so much love and have given so much to, which stands you out as one of the most notable pharmacists in Nigeria today. I really wonder if the story of Pharmacy in Nigeria today would be written without according you a prime of place for your profound contributions. I am particularly elated and thankful to God for being a part of the Pharmanews family; so the celebration of Pharmanews is also my celebration. As a former employee of Pharmanews, I have always associated myself with the organisation for many reasons. I remember with fondness the good old times we shared together, and the many things I learned while in the employ of the organisation. At 40, one can say authoritatively that Pharmanews has come of age, especially in this clime where mortality rate of businesses is very high. I cannot help but thank God for all you have achieved, the lives you have impacted and the privilege of very good health which you enjoy. I must also not fail to thank God for the warmth, love and support of your family, especially Madam, who have been doing great work in taking care of you. It is, therefore, with a deep sense of admiration that I, on behalf of my family, salute you, and pray that the good Lord will continue to strengthen you and grant you more years ahead in good health to continue your service to humanity. Thank you. Emma Iheanacho (Former staff,Pharmanews Pharmanews) App now available on Google Play store, Apple Store, Windows Store 6 }Selling Champion } Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 Increase your relationship capital By George O. Emetuche hen we launched our training and consulting they deem fit is to hurriedly business eight years Get the right people and go present their products and W all the miles to get things done services without making efforts ago, we didn’t have all the resources in place. The main Relating with one another to invest time and care that will capital I had as the founder of makes our world a better place. take the business relationship to the company was competence Successful companies gather enviable heights. and ability to connect with smart sales people to get things No business grows in a hurry! people. We explored our done. Increasing relationship Today’s businesses thrive on ‘‘relationship capital’’ and of capital is a winning concept in competence and relationships. course our ability to do the Job life, not just in business alone. I once held a business meeting exceptionally well. This strategy You need people to build a great at 10.00 pm in a recreation club. has become today our corporate team. You need the right people The meeting was at the instance culture. In sales, nothing beats to build a great organisation. This of my friend, a Chief Executive is why I maintain that you need Officer of a conglomerate - who is Leading organisations now competence and ability to grow develop tailor-made strategies great relationships. to build the right team that will a member of the elite recreation help the company to enhance club. The entrepreneur had to to satisfy their target markets. Generic proposals don’t sell Keep connecting its customer base by building give me appointment to see him relationship capital. at the club in order to spend anymore. You must find a way to Relationship capital is your personalise your offering. The ability to connect with people. In The more we relate with one more time to discuss business another, the more we discover with me. I got there that night and way our faces are different is the this tough business environment, way our needs differ. It is always you must keep connecting how to provide solutions for our watched him play tennis and our needs. This is a strong point in meeting commenced thereafter. smart to develop ‘‘individualised with the right circle that will approach’’ to problem solving. help your business. You must the world of business today; it The time I spent with him during is the essence of selling. This the business meeting couldn’t Discover your prospects keep doing the right things. and customers and proffer You must continue to satisfy aspect cannot be achieved when have been achieved in his office the salesman is in a hurry or if I ‘‘desperately’’ wanted to the best solutions that will your customers and prospects. take care of their needs. The The more you make customers desperate to sell. This scenario hold the meeting in his office. takes time to build. You must give The recreational environment importance of building a great happy, the more you grow your relationship capital cannot be relationship capital with them. it all it requires. You must water created the ambiance needed for the ground. You must make your a friendly business meeting. You overemphasised. The more you Developing healthy relationship connect with your customers with customers and prospects is grass greener by watering it. must ensure great relationships You must build relevant business and ability to deliver on your by fulfilling their needs and a strategy that leads to success ensuring healthy business in sales career. relationships that will bring you promises. This is the strength of out of hard selling. successful businesses. relationships with them, the Successful sales more you protect your business professionals believe in building Go the extra mile Generic proposal is not from activities of competitors. relationships. They believe in The more you spend more time delighting their clients by giving Don’t be afraid to start a smart enough! robust business relationship with In my experience in the world to bring the buyer to your side, them value. You just have to be the more you reduce the urge to competent; you should also know a prospect or customer. Some of selling, I have discovered that salespeople see this as a big the more you find a common be desperate and aggressive to how to connect with people. You sell your products and services. must increase in these aspects issue. They lack the attitude to ground with people, the more you commence healthy professional sell. The business environment Sales come naturally when you if you want to be outstanding in do the right thing. sales and in the business world. relationships. The only option today has gone personal.
Celebrating 40 Years of Uninterrupted Monthly Publication (1979-2019) years Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 7
Pharmanews App now available on Google Play store, Apple Store, Windows Store } 8 }Heroes of Healthcare Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 Professor Olawale Sulaiman : Renowned neurosurgeon with a big heart By Solomon Ojigbo
management in sub-Saharan USA – under Dr David Kline) and Africa, and is at the forefront of complex spine surgery (Medical revolutionising healthcare in the College of Wisconsin, USA - region. The firm has played a under Drs Larson and Maiman). major role in bringing modern neurosurgery and spine practice Sulaiman is board-certified to many in Nigeria, raising the in neurosurgery by the Royal standard of neurosurgery in both College of Physicians and private practice and government Surgeons of Canada. He is teaching hospitals. currently the medical director of Aside from the contributions the multidisciplinary Back and of kindhearted people like Spine Centre at Ochsner, as well Sulaiman, quality and affordable as the director, Laboratory of healthcare is inaccessible to Neural Injury and regeneration. millions of people in Nigeria. With The acclaimed neurosurgeon an inadequate health insurance has extensive research system, only a privileged few of experience in both nerve the population with the means and spinal cord injury and can afford the high cost of regeneration and he runs a standard healthcare available nerve/spinal cord regeneration in few hospitals in the country. translational research laboratory Sulaiman is using his influence at Ochsner. He is also a recipient and expertise to bring this issue of several honours and research to the forefront. grants, including: Research As a well-respected thought Excellence Award/Fellowship by leader in the Nigeria’s healthcare the Canadian Institute for Health challenges, Sulaiman acts as an Research; Outstanding Research advisor to Nigerian ministries Recognition/Incentive Award by of health at the state and federal the Alberta Heritage Foundation levels. He has recently been for Medical Research; Principal appointed as Special Adviser to Investigator Research Fellowship the Governor of Kwara State on Award by the Rick Hansen Health Matters. Institute/Alberta Paraplegic Foundation. Sulaiman is a reviewer Education and career for many neurosurgery and Professor Olawale Sulaiman Professor Sulaiman was born neuroscience journals and has in Lagos, Nigeria, in 1970. He also authored several peer- rofessor Olawale Sulaiman Humanitarian missions had his secondary education reviewed publications and book is a globally acclaimed For many years, Professor at St. Gregory’s College, Lagos. chapters in these areas. He is a Pprofessor of neurosurgery Sulaiman has been committed His academic brilliance earned member of many editorial boards and spine surgery. Currently to improving the quality him the National Scholarship and the Associate Editor for regarded as the best spine of healthcare available to for Academic Excellence for his Biomedical Reviews and Section surgeon in America, Sulaiman is disadvantaged people in sub- tertiary education and to pursue Editor for Frontiers in Surgery. highly skilled in the application Sahara African countries, his dream of becoming a surgeon. of minimally invasive surgical especially in Nigeria. He began Sulaiman completed a Sulaiman lectures at local, techniques to treat spinal his medical mission to Nigeria in combined MD/MSc degree national and international disorders and complex nerve 2010, where he would visit every at Medical University, Varna, meetings, including serving as reconstructive surgery. few months. Now, he travels Bulgaria, in Europe, where he faculty, moderator and member As the system chairman of almost every month and spends received the university prize of the scientific programme the Department of Neurosurgery seven to ten days, performing for academic excellence and committee at neurosurgery at Ochsner Health System in New surgery there. graduated among the best in national meetings (CNS, Orleans, Louisiana, Sulaiman Another remarkable sacrifice medical school. His interests AANS, Louisiana association oversees all of the clinical by Professor Sulaiman was his in nerve and spinal cord injury of neurological surgeons). He and academic neurosurgery agreement with his employers and regeneration research led currently serves as a Professor of activities at all Ochsner- (Ochsner Institute) to give up 15 him to the University of Alberta Clinical Neurosurgery at Tulane owned and network hospitals. per cent of his salary in order to in Edmonton, Canada, where University, in New Orleans, Recently, Ochsner Department give him the flexibility to travel he also completed a PhD in Louisiana, USA. of Neurosurgery was named for his medical missions. For over Neurosciences (neurobiology of Sulaiman is happily married number four in the country six years, he and his team have nerve injury and regeneration) to Patricia Sulaiman, an Advanced for patient care and quality by performed surgeries on over 500 under the tutelage of a world- Practice Registered Nurse. Like CareChex. patients, as well as screened and renowned neurophysiologist, Dr her spouse, Patricia is also very provided preventative medicines Tessa Gordon. passionate about improving In 2016, Sulaiman was to 5,000 people. His employers He completed his the quality of life of indigent named co-medical director of have bought into his vision and neurosurgery residency at people living in Nigeria. They the award-winning Ochsner support his efforts by sending University of Manitoba in both launched RNZ Foundation Neuroscience Institute, thereby medical supplies overseas with Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. for the management of their expanding his leadership role him. He also completed two world- philanthropic activities. to including neurosurgery, Sulaiman is also the CEO and renowned clinical fellowships neurology, physical medicine and Chairman of RNZ Global Limited, in both complex nerve Professor Sulaiman and rehabilitation and neurocritical a company focused on healthcare reconstruction (Louisiana State Patricia are blessed with three care departments. development, operations and University Health Science Centre, children.
1. Subscription rate for 12 editions is N10,000, including delivery within Nigeria. 2. Single copy costs =N=1,000.00 (without delivery) 3. Payment to be made directly to Zenith Bank Plc. A/c No: 1010701673 4. You can also pay through portal, simply visit: http://login.remita.net/ remita/external/PHARMANEWS/collector/ 5. After payment, text us the bank deposit slip number, your full names, contact address and e-mail. Call/Text Chiazor- 08134835525, Ifeoma-08057235128 Celebrating 40 Years of Uninterrupted Monthly Publication (1979-2019) years Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 9 The awesome FIP conference in Abu Dhabi sciences. with I attended some of the Yusuff Moshood sessions and the discussions POLEMIC [email protected]/08055212962 were engaging and eye-opening. It is my view is that if participants begin to embrace some of the innovative submissions, et me start with this terms of infrastructure. from all over the world. I would especially on some of the ideas confession: I had often The road network is so good surely love to visit the UAE again. that have elevated pharmacy Lnursed reservations and it looks like a joke. The city is However, beyond the practice in some parts of the trepidation about visiting also well secured, with everyone comfortable ambience created world, the profession will benefit countries in the core Middle East. aware that there are security by the government of Abu handsomely. This was perhaps due to my long cameras everywhere, even in Dhabi, I must also commend I will also personally held view that these countries public buses and taxis. You feel the leadership of the FIP for remember this conference were still largely far behind in so safe and secure even though organising a conference to be because of my encounter with embracing new trends and still there is no visible presence of remembered for years by the the FIP President, Mr Dominique very rigid in how they related security personnel, as is the case participants who were at the Jordan. I interviewed him for with the rest of the world. in many other parts of the world. venue, which was Abu Dhabi Pharmanews and he was such However, I have now been Also, when you interract with the National Exhibition Centre on a gentleman and a journalist’s purged of this my jaundiced few policemen you come across, Khaleej El Arabi Street. Not only delight. The respected view by my experience at the they are very courteous and was the venue very fitting, all the community pharmacist has memorable 79th International respectful; yet the way they talk processes of the conference were deep insights on the contentious Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) gives you so much confidence topnotch. This exactly is why issues in the profession and how World Congress of Pharmacy and that they are not only effective most participants will have fond to elevate the profession. He Pharmaceutical Sciences, held in but efficient at their job. memories of the conference. was emphatic that to tackle the Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Apparently, no stone has Moreover, the lectures global menace of fake drugs, (UAE) from 22 to 26 September. It been left unturned by the Abu were interesting, educative and pharmacists must be allowed to was my first time in the city and I Dhabi government to ensure the illuminating. The speakers were help in identifying the fictitious am quite impressed with how the city is serene and, despite the able to dissect all the subtopics, medicines. UAE authotrities have managed slightly hot weather condition, reflecting the theme of the The next FIP conference is to create a country that can be you are more likely to feel conference, as well as providing holding in Seville, Spain, from 13 referred to as a beautiful oasis in very comfortable in that city fresh perspectives on issues to 17 September 2020 and with a desert. as a visitor. The icing on the such as people-centred care, how great the 2019 edition was, Now I can attest to what many cake is definitely the attitude ethical challenge, technology, this next conference, themed: people probably know before – of the people in the UAE. They robotics, challenges on new “Technological Revolution that the UAE or, more specifically, are courteous, friendly and research, access to health, – Impact on Pharmacy and Abu Dhabi City in the UAE, is a welcoming. No wonder, cities non-communicable diseases, Healthcare”, should be a must- beautiful city, comparable to, if in the UAE especially, Dubai empowerment of women, as well attend for pharmacists and other not better than, many other great and Abu Dhabi, have become a as discussions on different fields stakeholders in Pharmacy. cities of the developed world in destination of choice for tourists of pharmacy and pharmaceutical
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Celebrating 40 Years of Uninterrupted Monthly Publication (1979-2019) } years Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 }Disease of the Month 11 Current trends in management of diabetes
medical expert has identified might overtake those suffering from diabetes mellitus as the tuberculosis, malaria, HIV/AIDS, A leading cause of amputation and other terminal diseases by the and infertility in the society today. year 2030, if adequate attention is Speaking at a seminar in Lagos not given to public enlightenment. recently, Dr Akinyele Akinlade, Normally, blood glucose levels consultant endocrinologist, Lagos are tightly controlled by insulin, a General Hospital, disclosed that no hormone produced by the pancreas. matter how unrelated problems that Insulin lowers the blood glucose take patient to clinic are, diabetes level. When the blood glucose should never be ruled out. elevates (for example, after eating Commonly referred to as food), insulin is released from the diabetes, diabetes mellitus was first pancreas to normalise the glucose identified as a disease associated level. In patients with diabetes, the with “sweet urine,” and excessive absence or insufficient production muscle loss in the ancient world. of insulin causes hyperglycaemia. Elevated levels of blood glucose Diabetes is a chronic medical (hyperglycaemia) lead to spillage condition, meaning that although it of glucose into the urine; hence the can be controlled, it lasts a lifetime. term sweet urine. According to Akinlade, a huge What are the effects of number of people have diabetes diabetes? without even knowing. He added Over time, diabetes can lead to that diabetes is the leading cause of diagnosis of the disease in 25 per by high blood sugar (glucose) blindness, kidney failure, and nerve death in many patients today. The cent of patients. levels that result from defects in damage. These types of damage consultant endocrinologist noted In a literature review on insulin secretion, or its action, or are the result of damage to small that in 2015 alone, it was reported AlphaBetic, an anti-diabetes drug both. According to Prof. Alebiosu vessels, referred to as microvascular that 14.2 million people were marketed by PharmacyPlus Limited, Olutayo, coordinator of Journalists disease. Diabetes is also an affected in Africa. “About 5 million a diabetes expert remarked that Action against Diabetes (JAAD), no important factor in accelerating of those people are from Nigeria. It “Nigeria like most developing fewer than three million Nigerians the hardening and narrowing of is the 4th leading cause of death in countries is experiencing a are living with diabetes today. the arteries (atherosclerosis), adults. That is to further prove that rapid epidemiological transition “Many people are living with leading to strokes, coronary heart it is higher than tuberculosis and with the burden of NCDs (non- the condition unaware of the disease, and other large blood HIV/AIDS combined,” he stressed. communicable diseases) especially seriousness of the disease and its vessel diseases. This is referred to In a related development, Dr diabetes and hypertension which consequences as those diagnosed as macrovascular disease. Anthonia Ogbera, an associate are threatening to overwhelm the are often poorly managed due to From an economic perspective, professor of medicine, Lagos health care system that is already lack of resources or because the medical expenses for people with State University Teaching Hospital overburdened by HIV/AIDS, TB health care professionals who care diabetes are over two times higher (LASUTH), Ikeja, Lagos, stated and malaria.” for them have poor knowledge than those for people who do not that it may take many years for about diabetes and how to provide have diabetes. complications of diabetes to show How serious is diabetes? good care, “ he said. up. She added that in Nigeria, these Diabetes mellitus is a group of He warned that with the rate complications occur at the time of metabolic diseases characterised at which diabetes is spreading, it continued on page 13
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Celebrating 40 Years of Uninterrupted Monthly Publication (1979-2019) years Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 Disease of the Month 13 Exposure to certain viral Current trends in management of diabetes infections (mumps and Coxsackie continued from page 11 in the blood that are viruses) or other environmental What causes diabetes? part of the body’s toxins may serve to trigger Insufficient production of immune system. abnormal antibody responses that insulin (either absolutely or relative The patient with cause damage to the pancreas to the body’s needs), production type 1 diabetes cells where insulin is made. Some of defective insulin (which is must rely on insulin of the antibodies seen in type 1 uncommon), or the inability of medication for diabetes include anti-islet cell cells to use insulin properly and survival. antibodies, anti-insulin antibodies efficiently leads to hyperglycaemia and anti-glutamic decarboxylase and diabetes. In autoimmune antibodies. These antibodies can This latter condition affects diseases, such as be detected in the majority of mostly the cells of muscle and fat type 1 diabetes, patients, and may help determine tissues, and results in a condition the immune which individuals are at risk for known as insulin resistance. This system mistakenly developing type 1 diabetes. is the primary problem in type manufactures 2 diabetes. The absolute lack of antibodies and Type 1 diabetes tends to occur insulin, usually secondary to a inflammatory cells in young, lean individuals, usually that are directed before 30 years of age, however, destructive process affecting the Type 1 diabetes was also formerly insulin-producing beta cells in the against and cause damage to older patients do present with this called insulin dependent diabetes patients’ own body tissues. In form of diabetes on occasions. This pancreas, is the main disorder in mellitus (IDDM), or juvenile type 1 diabetes. persons with type 1 diabetes, the subgroup is referred to as latent onset diabetes mellitus. In type 1 beta cells of the pancreas, which are autoimmune diabetes in adults diabetes, the pancreas undergoes In type 2 diabetes, there also is responsible for insulin production, (LADA). LADA is a slow, progressive an autoimmune attack by the body are attacked by the misdirected form of type 1 diabetes. Of all a steady decline of beta cells that itself, and is rendered incapable adds to the process of elevated immune system. It is believed that the people with diabetes, only of making insulin. Abnormal the tendency to develop abnormal approximately 10 per cent have blood sugars. Essentially, if antibodies have been found in the someone is resistant to insulin, the antibodies in type 1 diabetes is, in type 1 diabetes while the remaining majority of patients with type 1 part, genetically inherited, though 90 per cent have type 2 diabetes. body can, to some degree, increase diabetes. Antibodies are proteins production of insulin and overcome the details are not fully understood. continued on page 15 the level of resistance. After time, if production decreases and insulin cannot be released as vigorously, hyperglycaemia develops. Glucose is a simple sugar found in food. Glucose is an essential nutrient that provides energy for the proper functioning of the body cells. Carbohydrates are broken down in the small intestine and the glucose in digested food is then absorbed by the intestinal cells into the bloodstream, and is carried by the bloodstream to all the cells in the body where it is utilised. However, glucose cannot enter the cells alone and needs insulin to aid in its transport into the cells. Without insulin, the cells become starved of glucose energy despite the presence of abundant glucose in the bloodstream. In certain types of diabetes, the cells’ inability to utilise glucose gives rise to the ironic situation of “starvation in the midst of plenty”. The abundant, unutilised glucose is wastefully excreted in the urine. Insulin is a hormone that is produced by specialised cells (beta cells) of the pancreas. (The pancreas is a deep-seated organ in the abdomen located behind the stomach). In addition to helping glucose enter the cells, insulin is also important in tightly regulating the level of glucose in the blood. After a meal, the blood glucose level rises. In response to the increased glucose level, the pancreas normally releases more insulin into the bloodstream to help glucose enter the cells and lower blood glucose levels after a meal. When the blood glucose levels are lowered, the insulin release from the pancreas is turned down. It is important to note that even in the fasting state there is a low steady release of insulin than fluctuates a bit and helps to maintain a steady blood sugar level during fasting. In normal individuals, such a regulatory system helps to keep blood glucose levels in a tightly controlled range. As outlined above, in patients with diabetes, the insulin is either absent, relatively insufficient for the body’s needs, or not used properly by the body. All of these factors cause elevated levels of blood glucose (hyperglycaemia).
What are the different types of diabetes? There are two major types of diabetes, called type 1 and type 2. Pharmanews App now available on Google Play store, Apple Store, Windows Store 14 Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No.11
Celebrating 40 Years of Uninterrupted Monthly Publication (1979-2019) years Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 Disease of the Month 15 How is diabetes diagnosed? Current trends in management of diabetes The fasting blood glucose (sugar) test is the preferred way continued from page 13 are taken and also to diagnose diabetes. It is easy with medications to perform and convenient. After Type 2 diabetes was also used in the the person has fasted overnight previously referred to as non- treatment of HIV (at least 8 hours), a single sample insulin dependent diabetes infection (AIDS). of blood is drawn and sent to mellitus (NIDDM), or adult onset the laboratory for analysis. This diabetes mellitus (AODM). In What can also be done accurately in type 2 diabetes, patients can still are diabetes a doctor’s office using a glucose produce insulin, but do so relatively symptoms? meter. inadequately for their body’s The early Normal fasting plasma glucose needs, particularly in the face of symptoms levels are less than 100 milligrams insulin resistance as discussed of untreated per decilitre (mg/dl). Fasting above. In many cases, this actually diabetes are plasma glucose levels of more than means the pancreas produces related to 126 mg/dl on two or more tests on larger than normal quantities of elevated blood different days indicate diabetes. insulin. A major feature of type sugar levels, and A random blood glucose test 2 diabetes is a lack of sensitivity loss of glucose can also be used to diagnose to insulin by the cells of the body in the urine. diabetes. A blood glucose level (particularly fat and muscle cells). High amounts of of 200 mg/dl or higher indicates In addition to the problems glucose in the diabetes. When fasting blood with an increase in insulin urine can cause glucose stays above 100mg/dl, resistance, the release of insulin insulin is destroyed by disease, output and lead increasedto dehydration. urine but in the range of 100-126mg/dl, by the pancreas may also be such as chronic pancreatitis Dehydration causes increased this is known as impaired fasting defective and suboptimal. In fact, (inflammation of the pancreas thirst and water consumption. glucose (IFG). While patients with there is a known steady decline in by toxins like excessive alcohol), The inability of insulin to IFG do not have the diagnosis of beta cell production of insulin in trauma, or surgical removal of the perform normally has effects on diabetes, this condition carries type 2 diabetes that contributes to pancreas. protein, fat and carbohydrate with it its own risks and concerns, worsening glucose control. (This Diabetes can also result from metabolism. Insulin is an anabolic and is addressed elsewhere. is a major factor for many patients other hormonal disturbances, hormone, that is, one that with type 2 diabetes who ultimately such as excessive growth hormone encourages storage of fat and What are the chronic require insulin therapy.) Finally, the production (acromegaly) and protein. complications of diabetes? liver in these patients continues Cushing’s syndrome. In acromegaly, A relative or absolute insulin Diabetes complications are to produce glucose through a a pituitary gland tumour at the deficiency eventually leads to related to blood vessel diseases process called gluconeogenesis base of the brain causes excessive weight loss despite an increase in and are generally classified into despite elevated glucose levels. production of growth hormone, appetite. Some untreated diabetes small vessel disease, such as those The control of gluconeogenesis leading to hyperglycaemia. In patients also complain of fatigue, involving the eyes, kidneys and becomes compromised. Cushing’s syndrome, the adrenal nausea and vomiting. Patients with nerves (microvascular disease), glands produce an excess of diabetes are prone to developing and large vessel disease, involving Other forms of diabetes cortisol, which promotes blood infections of the bladder, skin, and the heart and blood vessels “Secondary” diabetes refers sugar elevation. vaginal areas. Fluctuations in blood (macrovascular disease). to elevated blood sugar levels In addition, certain medications glucose levels can lead to blurred Diabetes accelerates from another medical condition. may worsen diabetes control, or vision. Extremely elevated glucose hardening of the arteries Secondary diabetes may develop “unmask” latent diabetes. This is levels can lead to lethargy and (atherosclerosis) of the larger when the pancreatic tissue seen most commonly when steroid coma. blood vessels, leading to coronary responsible for the production of medications (such as prednisone) continued on page 17
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Celebrating 40 Years of Uninterrupted Monthly Publication (1979-2019) years Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 Disease of the Month 17 cholesterol, and simple sugars. Current trends in management of diabetes The total daily calories are evenly continued from page 15 divided into three meals. In the past two years, the ADA has lifted heart disease (angina or heart (UKPDS) the absolute ban on simple sugars. attack), strokes, and pain in the have clearly Small amounts of simple sugars lower extremities because of lack shown that are allowed when consumed with a of blood supply (claudication). aggressive complex meal. and intensive Weight reduction and exercise Eye complications control of are important treatments for The major eye complication elevated levels diabetes. Weight reduction and of diabetes is called diabetic of blood sugar exercise increase the body’s retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy in patients sensitivity to insulin, thus helping occurs in patients who have had with type to control blood sugar elevations. diabetes for at least five years. 1 and type Diseased small blood vessels in the 2 diabetes Medications for type 2 back of the eye cause the leakage decreases the diabetes of protein and blood in the retina. complications First, it must be noted that the Disease in these blood vessels o f following information only applies also causes the formation of small nephropathy, to patients who are not pregnant or aneurysms (microaneurysms), neuropathy, breastfeeding. At present the only and new but brittle blood vessels retinopathy, recommended way of controlling (neovascularisation). Spontaneous and may diabetes in women who are bleeding from the new and brittle reduce the pregnant or breastfeeding is by blood vessels can lead to retinal occurrence diet, exercise and insulin therapy. scarring and retinal detachment, and severity You should speak with your doctor thus impairing vision. of large if you are taking these medications To treat diabetic retinopathy a blood vessel and are considering becoming laser is used to destroy and prevent diseases. pregnant or if you have become the recurrence of the development ischemia). Aggressive control with intensive pregnant while taking these of these small aneurysms and brittle Symptoms of diabetic nerve therapy means achieving fasting medications. blood vessels. Approximately 50 damage include numbness, glucose levels between 70-120 Based on what is known, per cent of patients with diabetes burning, and aching of the feet and mg/dl; glucose levels of less than medications for type 2 diabetes are will develop some degree of lower extremities. When the nerve 160 mg/dl after meals; and a near designed to: increase the insulin diabetic retinopathy after 10 years disease causes a complete loss of normal haemoglobin A1c levels. output by the pancreas,decrease of diabetes, and 80 per cent of sensation in the feet, patients may the amount of glucose released diabetics have retinopathy after 15 not be aware of injuries to the feet, Studies in type 1 patients have from the liver, increase the years of the disease. Poor control and fail to properly protect them. shown that in intensively treated sensitivity (response) of cells to of blood sugar and blood pressure Shoes or other protection should patients, diabetic eye disease insulin, decrease the absorption of further aggravates eye disease in be worn as much as possible. decreased by 76 per cent, kidney carbohydrates from the intestine, diabetes. Seemingly minor skin injuries disease decreased by 54 per cent, and slow emptying of the stomach Cataracts and glaucoma should be attended to promptly and nerve disease decreased by 60 to delay the presentation of are also more common among to avoid serious infections. per cent. More recently the EDIC carbohydrates for digestion and diabetics. It is also important to Because of poor blood circulation, trial has shown that type 1 diabetes absorption in the small intestine. note that since the lens of the eye diabetic foot injuries may not heal. is also associated with increased When selecting therapy for lets water through, if blood sugar Sometimes, minor foot injuries can heart disease, similar to type 2 type 2 diabetes, consideration concentrations vary a lot, the lens lead to serious infection, ulcers, diabetes. should be given to:the magnitude of of the eye will shrink and swell with and even gangrene, necessitating However, the price for change in blood sugar control that fluid accordingly. As a result, blurry surgical amputation of toes, feet, aggressive blood sugar control each medication will provide; other vision is very common in poorly and other infected parts. is a two to three fold increase in coexisting medical conditions (high controlled diabetes. Patients are Diabetic nerve damage can the incidence of abnormally low blood pressure, high cholesterol, usually discouraged from getting affect the nerves that are important blood sugar levels (caused by the etc.); adverse effects of the therapy; a new eyeglass prescription until for penile erection, causing erectile diabetes medications). For this contraindications to therapy; their blood sugar is controlled. dysfunction (ED, impotence). reason, tight control of diabetes to issues that may affect compliance This allows for a more accurate Erectile dysfunction can also be achieve glucose levels between 70 (timing of medication, frequency of assessment of what kind of glasses caused by poor blood flow to the to 120 mg/dl is not recommended dosing); and cost to the patient and prescription is required. penis from diabetic blood vessel for children under 13 years of age, the health care system. disease. patients with severe recurrent It is important to remember Kidney damage Diabetic neuropathy can hypoglycaemia, patients unaware that if a drug can provide more than Kidney damage from diabetes also affect nerves to the stomach of their hypoglycaemia, and one benefit (lower blood sugar is called diabetic nephropathy. and intestines, causing nausea, patients with far advanced diabetes and have a beneficial effect on The onset of kidney disease and its weight loss, diarrhoea, and complications. cholesterol, for example), it should progression is extremely variable. other symptoms of gastroparesis To achieve optimal glucose be preferred. It’s also important Initially, diseased small blood (delayed emptying of food contents control without an undue risk to bear in mind that the cost of vessels in the kidneys cause the from the stomach into the intestines, of abnormally lowering blood drug therapy is relatively small leakage of protein in the urine. due to ineffective contraction of the sugar levels, patients with type 1 compared to the cost of managing Later on, the kidneys lose their stomach muscles). diabetes must monitor their blood the long-term complications ability to cleanse and filter blood. The pain of diabetic nerve glucose at least four times a day associated with poorly controlled The accumulation of toxic waste damage may respond to and administer insulin at least diabetes. products in the blood leads to the traditional treatments with certain three times per day. In patients with Varying combinations of need for dialysis. Dialysis involves medications such as gabapentin type 2 diabetes, aggressive blood medications also are used to using a machine that serves the (Neurontin), henytoin (Dilantin), sugar control has similar beneficial correct abnormally elevated levels function of the kidney by filtering and arbamazepine (Tegretol) effects on the eyes, kidneys, nerves of blood glucose in diabetes. As and cleaning the blood. In patients that are traditionally used in the and blood vessels. the list of medications continues to who do not want to undergo chronic treatment of seizure disorders. expand, treatment options for type dialysis, kidney transplantation can mitriptyline (Elavil, Endep) and How is diabetes treated? 2 diabetes can be better tailored be considered. desipramine (Norpraminine) are The major goal in treating to meet an individual’s needs. Not The progression of nephropathy medications that are traditionally diabetes is to minimise any every patient with type 2 diabetes in patients can be significantly used for depression. While many of elevation of blood sugar (glucose) will benefit from every drug, and slowed by controlling high blood these medications are not indicated without causing abnormally low not every drug is suitable for pressure, and by aggressively specifically for the treatment of levels of blood sugar. Type 1 each patient. Patients with type treating high blood sugar levels. diabetes related nerve pain, they diabetes is treated with insulin, 2 diabetes should work closely Angiotensin converting enzyme are used by physicians commonly. exercise, and a diabetic diet. Type with their physicians to achieve an inhibitors (ACE inhibitors) or The pain of diabetic nerve 2 diabetes is treated first with approach that provides the greatest angiotensin receptor blockers damage may also improve with weight reduction, a diabetic diet, benefits while minimising risks. (ARBs) used in treating high blood better blood sugar control, though and exercise. When these measures Patients with diabetes should pressure may also benefit kidney unfortunately blood glucose control fail to control the elevated blood never forget the importance of disease in diabetic patients. and the course of neuropathy do sugars, oral medications are diet and exercise. The control not always go hand in hand. Newer used. If oral medications are still of diabetes starts with a healthy Nerve damage medications for nerve pain include insufficient, treatment with insulin is lifestyle regardless of what Nerve damage from diabetes Pregabalin (Lyrica) and duloxetine considered. medications are being used. is called diabetic neuropathy and (Cymbalta). Adherence to a diabetic diet is is also caused by disease of small an important aspect of controlling Report compiled by blood vessels. In essence, the What can be done to slow elevated blood sugar in patients Adebayo Folorunsho-Francis blood flow to the nerves is limited, diabetes complications? with diabetes. The American with additional reports from leaving the nerves without blood Findings from the Diabetes Diabetes Association (ADA) has medicinenet.com/diabetes_ flow, and they get damaged or Control and Complications Trial provided guidelines for a diabetic treament and American Diabetes die as a result (a term known as (DCCT) and the United Kingdom diet. The ADA diet is a balanced, Association Prospective Diabetes Study nutritious diet that is low in fat, Pharmanews App now available on Google Play store, Apple Store, Windows Store continued from page 1
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Celebrating 40 Years of Uninterrupted Monthly Publication (1979-2019) } years Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 }Interview 19 the interactions and relationships How I’ve confronted major pharmacy issues in my first between the regulatory agencies year as PSN president – Ohuabunwa and pharmacists and Pharmacy. continued from front page We have looked at opportunity down the National Association to improve the output of the of Pharmaceutical Technicians pharmaceutical industries, to move & Technologists of Nigeria away from being over dependent (NAPPTON) Bill which, he said, on importation, to the point where could have dislocated all that the we can reach some of the minimal PSN had been working on when the targets set by the national drug law issue came to the fore early in the and national health policies. life of the new administration. It has also been a period in He stated that he was happy which we have looked into how that that the PSN was able to rally we can reengage the government the support of stakeholders which on how we can raise the status of includes the Pharmacists Council pharmacists in the scheme of things of Nigeria (PCN) and the Nigerian and I believe people are embracing Medical Association (NMA) to these ideas. For instance, for this oppose the provocative bill. present political dispensation, The PSN helmsman also spoke we have the largest number of on the challenges he had had to pharmacists in political office and deal with in his quest to ensure the positions for the first time. We have Pharmacy Bill was signed into law quite a lot of pharmacists who are by the president, noting that the PSN commissioners, secretary to the under his leadership will pursue state governments (SSGs), senators, the issue of the new pharmacy law federal and state representatives to a logical conclusion during his and so on. tenure. I cannot attribute all that to He also spoke on efforts of what we’ve done in one year, but the PSN leadership to ensure I am happy to note that things are the commencement of the falling in place with the spirit we implementation of the National Pharm. (Mazi) Sam Ohuabunwa, PSN president came in with. I said that we want Drug Distribution Guidelines and its challenges. It is also a more pharmacists in government get people to know that Pharmacy so that we can have a better voice in (NDDG), adding that even though period of learning how the PSN is our profession and PSN belongs there have been challenges to its is run internally and a period of government’s decisions. That was to us all. why when the nation was going into implementation, necessary steps understanding the dynamics of No one is more of a pharmacist are being taken to overcome them. what we ought to be dealing with. political contests last year and early or has more investment in the this year, we were able to support Below is the interview. However, it is also a period that profession than others. So, these has enabled us to begin to provide and encourage our colleagues who last 12 months have also been a were involved. It’s been one year since certain changes that we need to period of bringing in a greater you took over the mantle of take Pharmacy to where it should So, the last one year has involvement of pharmacists in the been very active. We have also leadership as president of PSN, be. The first thing in this direction affairs of Pharmacy and PSN. how would you describe these is ensuring greater participation connected with our international It has also been an opportunity colleagues. We connected with last 12 months? of pharmacists in decision making. for us to confront the major issues Let me start by saying that This is because hitherto, we had the FIP, pharmacists in the United affecting Pharmacy, especially in Kingdom and other nations, and it has been a period of learning. people who had the impression that dealing with the regulatory and legal I have had the opportunity to the PSN and pharmacy issues were issues we have. We have focused on learn a lot more about Pharmacy for some people. So, I’m trying to continued on page 21
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Celebrating 40 Years of Uninterrupted Monthly Publication (1979-2019) } years Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 }Interview 21 Bill and getting it signed into How I’ve confronted major pharmacy issues in my first law by the President, while the year as PSN president – Ohuabunwa second is the implementation of the National Drug Distribution continued from page 19 opportunities in Guidelines (NDDG). What is the we are doing the peer review to the private sector state of things concerning these improve our work and practice. beyond government two issues and when will they be So as I said, it has been a establishments. I have resolved? period of learning, understanding told people who can’t The Pharmacy Bill is the one and putting some woods in the fire, get internship places to that has taken some of my greatest believing that as we go into our get in touch with us. I time and attention. I had hoped I second year, the woods will flame have been busy with my would be able to break this issue properly. P.A., getting internship quickly but we confronted bigger placement opportunities opposition than I had imagined. What would you say has been for our pharmacists. When I came in I recruited all the the greatest achievement of your Let me also state forces I could find. I wanted to presidency in this last one year? that because of the get it done. But then a time came I think our greatest achievement issue we have with the when they said they couldn’t find has been to rally support against PCN leadership, we the bill. They told us it was in the the National Association of have reiterated that this presidency; but the president’s Pharmaceutical Technicians and profession is a noble office told us they didn’t have it - Technologists (NAPPTON) Bill. one and must be led by that it had been sent back to the That was one of the first things I people who have noble National Assembly. We went to the confronted when I came in and we character. I need to state National Assembly and they said had to rally stakeholders’ support, that on principle, and for they didn’t have it. including that of the Pharmacists the first time, almost all I recruited my brother who was Council of Nigeria (PCN) and Pharm. (Mazi) Sam Ohuabunwa, the past PSN presidents a senator to invite all the leaders in the Nigeria Medical Association PSN president. signed a joint paper to the National Assembly in terms of (NMA), to oppose it successfully. our professional tone. We need to make our position known regarding administration. The clerks of the This was a bill that sought to raise the tone of our professional what we think about the leadership House and Senate and even clerks establish a new regulatory agency practice. That is why we are going that we require in PCN. This had of the relevant committees and, for pharmacy technicians and to give awards to people who have never been done before. eventually, it was found. But by that technologies. That would have moved their practice to a higher I have also maintained a good time, it was already late as we were completely dislocated all we had level at the 2019 PSN conference. relationship with the regulatory out of time because May 29, the day been working on. It is the most There are certain things we agencies. Today, all the regulatory for the handover, which was the last significant thing achieved in our started and explained in the agencies and the PSN are on the day for signing of bills into law, was first year, even though there were Presidential Advisory Note on same page and speaking for each upon us. We tried to push it. We other things. The other achievement minimal level of practice. Some other. These are some of the things recruited General Buba Marwa to is bringing some openness to companies have raised the bar. we have touched since last year. help us push. We spoke with people Pharmacy and PSN. The feedback I Some have increased the number We are also working on a new in the presidency to help us. We get is that people are feeling better of positions in their organisations constitution. We already have a even secured an appointment to informed about what we are doing. for interns. This is one of the issues draft and I hope that by next year see the president but because of I’ve been to many states and have we have in Pharmacy. The issue we shall have a new constitution. his schedule, we could not see him. interacted with colleagues and that of some young pharmacists being So, we couldn’t get it signed before is the feeling I get. This may seem without a place for internship There are two critical May 29. little but it is there. for three to four years. This has pharmacy issues that have been We are back to it now. We have We have also begun to make stopped. hanging for a while. The first is started a new procedure and we are a statement that we need to raise We have opened up the passage of the Pharmacy continued on page 22
Pharmanews App now available on Google Play store, Apple Store, Windows Store } 22 }Interview Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 How I’ve confronted major pharmacy issues in my first are still looking back. We need to year as PSN president – Ohuabunwa move forward. That is the first thing continued from page 21 good idea and the CWC component we need to do as pharmacists. We soon in this dispensation because is fundamental to it. It ensures there need to say that our practice must taking actions ahead of time to make the Council was dissolved after is regulation and enterprise and be like the best as it is done in the sure that when the bill gets back to the last dispensation. So we are I believe it is the way to go. We rest of the world. Once we agree on the president, it gets signed without working on it. I believe we shall shall push it. It is part of the 7-point that, every other thing will be easy delay. The House of Representatives do it. agenda that I set for myself and to deal with. is working on it right now and when On the NDDG, I must admit that I pray to God and I believe that The moment we benchmark the they finish, we shall take it to the we have not made much progress. before I finish my tenure, I would practice based on how it is done in Senate. My thinking is that at the end This is because as at the time I met have achieved it. US, UK, UAE and other countries of this year, the law should be back the former minister, Prof. Adewole, doing well and agree that is the to the presidency and we shall have on the issue, he told me we had to I was at the 2019 FIP way we should go, it will be easy enough time to get the president to wait for the establishment of the Conference held in Abu Dhabi to transplant it into our own nation sign it. Everybody agrees to it; so Coordinated Wholesale Centres and covered some of the sessions. while still being conscious of our why should it be difficult? (CWC) across the nation for the I observed that we are still very level of development. That is one of Another issue we have tried implementation to start. However, much behind in terms of level of the reasons we are speaking about to push is the issue of consultancy based on the level of infrastructure practice when compared to some Satellite Pharmacy, Urban Spoke cadre for pharmacists. I have also that is on ground, I think we can of the countries in the world. Model etc. These are new concepts interacted with the head of service start and not wait until everything What can we do to bridge this that can help us. and the leadership of the West is ready. We can start and then gap? Technology is coming and we African Postgraduate College of set timelines to expand it as the First, we have to change our cannot stop it. We just have to adapt. Pharmacists (WAPCP). We are required infrastructure improves. thinking as practitioners. We have That is why mindset is crucial. We hoping that when the new National We need to know that it is in the to adapt our thinking to the global must adapt our mindset to the way Council on Establishment meeting interest of our traducers that best standards. Pharmacists in the world is going and flow with it, holds, the issue will be discussed this thing is delayed as much as Nigeria need to rise and understand otherwise we would be where we and resolved. They are going to meet possible. that the world is moving. Many are and be left behind. The NDDG concept is a very I know we have had resistance from other stakeholders. For example, we had resistance against Pharm.D and clinical pharmacy practice. But, these resistance is being broken. What we need to do is to begin to push on all sides and levels - at state levels, technical group level and at hospital and community pharmacy levels. Some people think the issues we have in Pharmacy can be franchised to some groups or individuals like the PSN president, NAPA president or others, but that is incorrect. Every pharmacist should be sufficiently motivated and confident to introduce changes where he is. I have said that anybody that visits a pharmacy, either in community practice or hospital, should not leave without interacting with the pharmacist. This is because they need the advice of a pharmacist before taking any medication. If we can begin to move in that direction, we shall make progress because as we are adding value, the public and our patients will be seeing the value of pharmacists and further appreciate it. That is a challenge to us.
There have been talks for years that the Nigerian nation should have a prescription policy. How desirable is this policy and what problem (s) will it help us to solve? Prescription policy is desirable, but everybody has to make adjustments. Having prescription is the ultimate. That is the way it ought to be. However, it would challenge everybody, including pharmacists. This is because when we get to that level, it means you can’t walk into a pharmacy and buy medicines without prescription. You can buy pharmacists’ only medicines but you can’t buy prescription medicines. That is not the practice now because of the way we have developed and evolved as a nation. This is because some practitioners and so many other people have refused to stay in their lane; so pharmacists have also moved into other lanes. So, we need to get back to our lanes. So, we must all adjust. It is not just by saying pharmacists should go back; other people who have encroached on pharmacists’ lane must also go back. That will be good culture change which we must all begin to work on. That is the ultimate change that must be our destination.
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Celebrating 40 Years of Uninterrupted Monthly Publication (1979-2019) } years Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 }BOF Communique 25 Communiqué Of The 2019 Board Of Fellows, Pharmaceutical Society Of Nigeria (PSN) Mid-Year Meeting/Public Lecture Which Held At Sheraton Hotel Lagos, Ikeja, Lagos State On 16th- 17th July 2019 continued from page 29 8. The Meeting noted that true rebirth is impossible in the face is foundational to national rebirth and not mere ‘stomach of marginalization and social exclusion from socio-economic infrastructure’ during electioneering seasons. Functional benefits that other members of the nation freely enjoy. In this transportation, power, education, housing, healthcare scenario, citizens are not motivated to support the state and delivery, justice and police systems will transmit to the society because they do not feel that the society is adequately people, the commitment of government to their development concerned about their welfare and because socio-economic and wellbeing. inequalities fuel fears, suspicions and violence which keep 10. The Meeting also noted that transformation cannot be left to the people divided. The meeting also noted that poverty leadership. Followers have a huge role to play in ensuring is inimical to nation building as poor people cannot be that leaders are held accountable for their promises and expected to play their proper role in the development of the their actions. This will require specific input of various groups nation. The meeting noted that nations are built by healthy including civil societies, non-governmental organizations, and skilled citizens and calls for the promotion of access of traditional and religious institutions and other concerned most Nigerians to basic education, housing and health. citizens. It is imperative that leadership be competent, 9. The Meeting reiterated the fact that elections are not an consistent and fair to all. end in themselves but rather a process that should ensure 11. The Meeting noted that the role of the youths, women and that the real business of governance is initiated and the Nigerians in Diaspora cannot be overemphasized. It noted delivery of the real dividends of democracy such as quality that the energy, resourcefulness and enthusiasm of the young social services especially education and health, prosperity people and Nigerian women have the real potential to lift the and security of life and property. Elected governments country towards increasing socio-economic development should resist being hijacked or diverted by forces that do using the tools of education and human capacity building. It not believe in harnessing our great potentials. The meeting was also noted that those suitably qualified must reach out noted that putting service delivery at the heart of governance proactively to take up positions where they can make the most difference as we must as a people agree on what we want as a nation and actively pursue it. No one can help develop the nation for us, it is a collective responsibility. The Meeting also noted the contribution of the members of the press to nation building calling on practitioners to devise appropriate means for regulation, monitoring and standardization so that members of the press contribute positively to nation building rather than tearing it down. 12. The Meeting called for effective utilization of trade processes/frameworks that exist to support distribution and marketing of good quality products from Nigeria to neighbouring countries and globally. Such frameworks include ECOWAS, the Free Trade zone and various agencies that support trade across the region. Effective utilization of these processes will have a collateral effect of ensuring legal protection for products that are already in these regional/global markets from Nigeria. 13. The Meeting lauded the idea of a Public Lecture by the Board of Fellows as it provides the opportunity for it to make meaningful contribution to the growth and development of the country. The Meeting agreed that the required continuous national discussions have thus started and Fellows of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria will contribute their quota not only to the rebirth of the pharmacy profession but to that of the nation as a whole.
Pharm. (Prof.) Mbang N. Femi- Oyewo,MFR,FPSN,FPCPharm, FNAPharm Pharm. Rosemary Nikoro,FPSN NATIONAL CHAIRMAN
SECRETARY
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Celebrating 40 Years of Uninterrupted Monthly Publication (1979-2019) } years Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 }Interview 27 How pharmacists can help curb health threats, fake drugs – FIP president By Yusuff Moshood
really large domain and with it Despite the huge numbers we can have a lot of services for of pharmacists from pharmacists in these levels. Africa attending FIP, it has taken years for the annual The dynamic nature of conference to be hosted healthcare has increasingly by countries in the African led to the emergence of new continent. Now that it has roles for pharmacists as key been confirmed that the members of the health team. FIP conference is coming to How can pharmacy education Africa, what are your thoughts keep up with this dynamic about this development and trend to ensure pharmacists what are your expectations? are able to make the required Will the decision help to invaluable contributions further bring inclusiveness? expected of them as key Yes, it will help inclusiveness. members of the health team? However, for me, I believe It is quite important that irrespective of where you education anticipates because come from, Africa, Europe, the needs of pharmacists America or anywhere, we are are changing quite quickly, all pharmacists. I’m convinced depending on the needs of we can have same strategy for the regions, the health system everybody. But, we have to and the people. I expect that build these strategies gradually the education should make in regions. pharmacists fit to have new There are regions where roles and mission in the future. they have been implementing This is the reason why the strategies on new roles for FIP in 2016 started the Global Pharmacy and pharmacists for Development Goals for about 20 years, while others are Education. My expectation is just starting. That was why I said that we can spread out these we have a mission to decrease goals and implement them the gaps between regions and all over the world. countries. For instance, clinical One of the ways to do this is pharmacy for pharmacists that we can organise regional is very important. If we want conferences and we have to provide new services to started this. The first one held our population it has to be last year was in Amman, Jordan. reflected in our education. The second one is holding in Ankara, after this conference in While the fake drug Abu Dhabi. We want to continue menace is a global with that in other regions, problem, its impacts on including Africa. healthcare especially This is because with the Mr Dominique Jordan in developing countries regional conferences, we can is huge. What proactive focus on the specific local needs measures can be taken or of the regions. It will not be like r Dominique Jordan is the president of the International should be taken to deal with Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP). In this exclusive interview the world congress where every the challenge particularly discussion is at a global level. Mwith Pharmanews at the 2019 FIP World Congress in Abu in areas with less developed Dhabi, UAE, Jordan spoke on what prompted his decision to modernise health systems? You have served the FIP for the operations of FIP when he was elected as president in September, It is really a huge problem years in different capacities. 2018 and how the changes being introduced can help reduce the gap and one which even the WHO However, after you have between countries in pharmacy education, science and practice. wants to find a solution to. Are completed your tenure as He also spoke about the need for pharmacy education to keep up we going to find a solution? I president, how would you with the changing needs and roles of pharmacists as well as strategies don’t know and I don’t really want to be remembered? that can help in combatting the menace of fake drugs. Excerpts: believe that we can, but we can You know what? I think reduce it. no one will remember that We can have pharmacists Mr Jordan was FIP president. You have in the past spoken given new roles in identifying What I think is important is that about how you are keen to What are the changes these fake medicines. I know all pharmacists should work modernise FIP. What specific that you have been able to that it is more of a global together to consolidate on the areas of FIP operations do you implement since you came in problem with a lot of criminality position of pharmacists in the want to modernise and why? as president? and that there is a lot of money health system. To have a role I want to modernise FIP We began quickly in terms in this kind of business but I in the health system. This has to because every organisation at of having a vision, mission think that, locally, pharmacists be a joint effort for educators, a point needs positive change. and a strategic plan. Part of can help inform the people how scientists and practitioners. We have to adapt the FIP to the our mission for FIP was to important it will be for them This is what I think should be needs of member organisations. decrease the gap between the to get their products from a our priority and that everybody We want to rethink the countries in education, science structured chain of distribution, should have a role to play in structures, membership fees and practice. These objectives rather than buying from the it. It should be the goal of and the procedures in order to are also important to the WHO market. everybody. We should work effectively support member [World Health Organisation] The quality control services hard to serve the people and organisations. and, as you know, we have a from the pharmacist should make a difference. After a while in the life of close relationship with WHO. be guaranteed, as it will help My dream is that every any organisation, I think it is The WHO in 2019 identified to guarantee the quality of the time the government wants to always good to have this kind 10 threats to health and in medicines and I know we have organise something for or in of reflections. Therefore, when I all these threats identified, a lot of work to do but this will the health system, there should came in as president I was asking, pharmacists have roles to play help us in tracing the movement be roles for pharmacists and what should I change, based on in tackling them. We decided to of drugs in different regions and pharmacists should be able the work of my predecessors? have three levels of intervention. working with governments and to deliver. We pharmacists are What should I adopt from them Our strategies are to work on WHO to have a global strategy however the key to the success to enable us move forward? non-cardiovascular diseases that will allow professionals to of this dream. We have to work Answers to those have informed (NCDs), prevention, and safety. play important roles in this big hard to make it possible. the changes. Safety, as you know, is a issue of fake medicines. Pharmanews App now available on Google Play store, Apple Store, Windows Store 28 Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No.11
Celebrating 40 Years of Uninterrupted Monthly Publication (1979-2019) } years Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 }BOF Communique 29 Communiqué Of The 2019 Board Of Fellows, Pharmaceutical Society Of Nigeria (PSN) Mid-Year Meeting/Public Lecture Which Held At Sheraton Hotel Lagos, Ikeja, Lagos State On 16th- 17th July 2019 2. The meeting agreed that a new approach must be taken to the issue of prescriptions for prescription only medicine The theme of the Public Lecture was: “Rebirth of Nigeria – as this is one sure way of restricting access to life-saving Harnessing the Great Potentials” medicines. A call was made to both the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria and the Nigeria Medical Association to The Chairman at the Public Lecture was Mrs. Osaretin Afusat work out modalities to ensure a viable prescription policy Demuren, Chairman, Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB) and the Guest for the country. Speaker at the event was Prof. Ibrahim Agboola Gambari, CFR, 3. There is a link between peace and sustainable development. OCORT, Founder, Chairman of the Board of Directors, Savannah Development cannot happen in an environment of unrest, Centre for Diplomacy, Democracy and Development. calamity and disunity. However, there cannot be peace and development without recognition of human rights. Other dignitaries at the Public Lecture/Opening ceremony This will ensure we have democratic development. This included: Chairman, Board of Fellows, Prof. Mbang N. Femi-Oyewo, calls for appropriate mechanisms for conflict prevention, MFR, FPCPharm, FPSN,FNAPharm, Pharm Mazi Sam. Ohuabunwa, management and resolution at both the local and state levels. OFR, FPCPharm, FNAPharm, FPSN, President, Pharmaceutical 4. The Meeting identified as enemies of the Nigerian state, Society of Nigeria (PSN) ably represented by the Deputy those groups characterized by certain negative tendencies, President (South), Pharm. Ejiro Foyibo FPSN, Prince Juli Adelusi- phenomena and traits which when taken together, constitute Adeluyi FPCPharm, FNAPharm, FPSN, mni, Former Minister of serious impediments to the growth, development, corporate Health and Current President, Nigeria Academy of Pharmacy, existence and efficient functioning of the Nigerian state. Former Minister of Aviation, Pharm. (Sen.) Fidelia Njeze,FPSN , These enemies critically undermine the emergence of Past President of PSN, Pharm. (Sir) Anthony Akhimien FPCPharm, a strong, united, vibrant, prosperous and just nation. The FPSN, mni, Dr. Olawoyin Imoisili representing the Permanent Meeting listed these enemies to include ethnic and religious Secretary of the Lagos State Health Service Commission, jingoism (being the most dangerous), gross indiscipline and Immediate Past Chairman, Board of Fellows (BOF) Pharm. (Barr.) corruption as well as violent extremism resulting in high Chiedu Mordi FPSN and league of Past Chairmen of Board of levels of insecurity. The Meeting noted that a consistent and Fellows, Pharm. Paul Enebeli FPSN, Pharm. Ebenezer Adeleke manifestly fair effort to treat all Nigerians, irrespective of FPSN, Dr. John Nwaiwu FPSN and Pharm. Ade Popoola FPSN, their ethnic origin, religious affiliations equally before the MD, Reals Pharma, Registrar, Pharmacists’ Council of Nigeria law, promotion of common citizenship, promotion of good (PCN), Pharm. Elijah Mohammed FPSN, FPCPharm, FNAPharm, governance and addressing the growing inequality between FNIM, Immediate Past Chairman, Pharmaceutical Manufacturing the North and South of the country will go a long way to Group of Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (PMGMAN) and dealing with these. The Meeting agreed that processes for MD/CEO, SKG Pharma, Pharm. Okey Akpa FPSN, Chairman, accountability and appropriate punishment of offenders Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Group of Manufacturers must be put in place. Association of Nigeria (PMGMAN) Mr. Fidelis Ayebae, MD/CEO 5. It was noted that national rebirth like nation building is a Fidson PLC represented by the Secretary of the Group, Mr. Frank process not a destination and that every country must of a Moneme, Immediate Past Chairman, Nigeria Representatives of necessity move from a mere geopolitical location to a desired Overseas Pharmaceutical Manufacturers (NIROPHARM), Pharm. state approved by the majority of the people. The meeting Lekan Asuni FPSN, Chairman, Association of Pharmaceutical noted one of the definitions of nation building as “the process Importers of Nigeria (APIN) and Chairman, Planning Committee which all the inhabitants of a given territory, regardless of for the 2019 Mid-year Meeting, Pharm. Nnamdi Obi FPSN, National individual, ethnic, tribal, religious or linguistic preferences Chairman of NACCIMA, Hajiya Saratu Iya Aliyu represented come to identify with the symbols and institutions of the by the Chairman, Anambra Chapter, Pharm. Uche Akpakama State and share a common sense of destiny”. The Meeting FPSN, Healthcare Providers of Nigeria, Dr. Jimmy Adeyeye noted with dismay that after almost sixty (60) years post- represented by the National Treasurer, Dr. Oladele, Chairman of independence, the country is still beset with tremendous Association of Industrial Pharmacists of Nigeria (NAIP), Pharm. challenges including political fragility, political vitality, ethnic Remi Adeseun, FPSN, FNAPharm, Country Manager, IQVIA and and religious mistrusts, intolerance and violent extremism Director of Ceremony, National Chairman, Association of Lady and high levels of insecurity and calls for concerted efforts Pharmacists, Pharm. Victoria Ukwu FPSN, Medical Director by all Nigerians to walk together to build a vibrant and of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Dr. Ife Rickett,. Tina Vukor- united nation as nation building is the product of conscious Quarshie, Independent Director with Wema Bank, Elders of statecraft, not happenstance. the Association, Pharm. Hunponu Wusu, Commercial Medicine 6. The Meeting also noted that Federal character so entrenched Stores, Sir Ifeanyi Atueyi, Vice President, Nigeria Academy of in our polity can be executed on the premises of meritocracy Pharmacy and Publisher Pharmanews, Pharm. Deji Osinoiki and competitiveness rather than on mediocrity. Ensuring that FPSN and Pharm(Mrs.) Yomi Osinoiki FPSN, May and Baker all meet a minimum level of competence and capability will PLC, Pharm. Nnamdi Okafor FPSN, , Pharm. Kennedy Izunwa result in good hands being selected, employed or assigned FPSN, CEO Foundation Pharma, Distinguished Prof. C. I. Igwilo to various positions which will produce good outputs in each FPCPharm, FPSN, Dean, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lagos, area of our national life. Prof. Bolajoko Aina FPSN,National Secretary, PSN, Pharm. Emeka 7. The Meeting noted that rebirth is impossible without a clear Duru, National Treasurer, PSN, Pharm. Folake Adeniyi, FPSN, Dr. understanding of our environment which will enable us to Adedayo amd Mrs. Akintemi, Directors Trinity University and do an effective SWOT Analysis. Rebirth would also require Mr. Jide Soaga, Registrar Trinity University an array of Directors the evolution of a system of leadership recruitment and from NAFDAC, PCN, and the Federal and State Civil Service, and accountability to enable us produce leaders that will confront Fellows of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, amongst others. the challenges of the environment effectively. Capable hands must compete for leadership positions even if it is at the Local The Meeting deliberated on the theme of the mid-year Public Government level. True rebirth cannot also be achieved if Lecture meeting acknowledging the uniqueness of the Public the citizens do not have a feeling of national identity (which Lecture, an innovation under the Femi-Oyewo-led Executive is what produces the peculiar character of a nation). This Committee of the Board to educate and stir discussion towards requires systems being put in place for continuous national enhancement of the country in harnessing the great potentials. conversations that will enable us fashion out a nation that truly The following observations and recommendations were made: works for us. It would also help fashion out the best political 1. A rebirth is required in the pharmaceutical space to ensure we system for us as a nation as no one system is completely good deal concisely with the substance and drug abuse situation or bad. The Meeting called on the President of the Federal which has taken a huge toll on the younger generation who Republic of Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari, ,GCFR are the engine room for future development. The meeting to revisit the outcomes of the 2014 National Conference and noted with dismay the twin consequences of this situation effect without delay those recommendations that do not which means useful medicines are taken out of circulation require constitutional amendments or changes in Laws. and the decimation of large numbers of the population via addiction, vulnerability to accidents or death. continued on page 25 Pharmanews App now available on Google Play store, Apple Store, Windows Store } 30 }Industry News Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 Victory Drugs marks 30th anniversary - Holds public lecture on collaborative healthcare By Yusuff Moshood
istinguished healthcare practitioners, among Dwhom were Prof. Fola Tayo, a World Health Organisation consultant; Pharm. (Sir) Ifeanyi Atueyi, managing director, Pharmanews Limited; Pharm. (Sir) Anthony Akhimien, vice president and chairman of Faculty of Community Pharmacy, West African Postgraduate College of Pharmacists; Prof. Janet Ajuluchukwu, consultant cardiologist, Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH); and Prof. Njideka Okubadejo, consultant neurologist (LUTH), graced the 30th anniversary of Victory Drugs, celebrated recently at Amber Residence, GRA, Ikeja, Lagos. Pharm. (Mrs) Folasade Olufunke Lawal – Founder/CEO of Victory Drugs, Festac Speaking at the event, Pharm. (Mrs) Folasade Olufunke Lawal, founder/CEO of Victory Drugs, who traced the genesis of the company to her desire to make a difference in ethical pharmaceutical service in community practice, thanked all who had supported her vision, L-R: Pharm. (Sir) Anthony Akhimien, former president, PSN; Pharm. (Sir) Ifeanyi Atueyi, chairman noting that even though it was not of the occasion; Pharm. (Mrs) Bolanle Adeniran, chairman, PSN, Lagos State; Mr Lawal; Pharm. easy, she remained undaunted in (Mrs) Folasade Lawal, founder/MD, Victory Drugs; Prof. Fola Tayo, father of the day; Pharm. Samuel her resolve that things could be Adekola, ACPN National Chairman; Prof. Okubadejo, consultant neurologist, LUTH; and Prof. done right and professionally. Ajuluchukwu, consultant cardiologist, LUTH, cutting the anniversary cake. The memorable event was chaired by Sir Atueyi, who in his Njideka Okubadejo, opening address, congratulated spoke on “Roadmap and praised Pharm. Lawal for her for Collaborative decision to use Victory Drugs Healthcare”, anniversary celebration to call in which she attention to the issue of partnership highlighted the and collaboration in healthcare, importance of noting that the subject was quite establishing better topical and relevant. channels for He disclosed that professionals inter-professional all over the world were embracing communication and collaboration to ensure they serve conflict resolution their patients better, adding for a better, more that healthcare practitioners in effective team Nigeria need to work together in function under the interest of better healthcare collaborative delivery for patients. leadership. “It is a wave that is blowing Okubadejo across all sectors of healthcare also emphasised that we have to embrace. If we do the end goal of so, pharmacists, medical doctors, “patient-focused nurses and other healthcare care” across the practitioners will be able to make tiers of healthcare their contributions to help the delivery, identifying patient and will be happy doing the importance of so. I want all of us to inculcate that clarifying roles, spirit of partnership,” Atueyi said. setting agreed Pharm. (Mrs) Folasade Olufunke Lawal – Founder/CEO of Victory Drugs, Festac Speaking in the same vein, limits and having Prof. Fola Tayo, who was father of the day at the memorable event, working environments that support inter-professional collaboration. strategise on implementation. praised Lawal for her decision to collaboration. Also speaking at the event, Prof. Ajuluchukwu also stated have a discourse on collaborative Pharm. (Sir) Anthony Akhimien Janet Ajuluchukwu’s whose lecture that the central revolving healthcare to the company’s in his anniversary lecture stated was titled “Role Sharing in Medical concepts for role sharing are anniversary, noting that it would that the Nigerian health system is Practice”, sought to crystallise training and regulation, which be used to lay the foundation pluralistic as it includes orthodox, the central vision of achieving rely on supervision, delegation, for purpose-driven healthcare alternative and traditional collaborative healthcare in Nigeria substitution, enhancement, delivery in Nigeria through healthcare systems, operating by referencing places around the mentoring and innovation to be collaboration and partnership by alongside each other. world like the United Kingdom and effectively implemented and all healthcare practitioners. Akhimien identified the Netherlands where they continue sustained. The distinguished scholar historic challenges to healthcare to expand the scope of the concept. She also lamented the brain stated further that it was important collaboration in Nigeria to include Ajuluchukwu quoted drain of the Nigerian healthcare to continue to communicate poor implementation of the NHIS, Henneman et al in characterising the workforce to regions of the world the need for all healthcare poor budgetary allocation, poor key requirements for collaboration where they already have the practitioners to work together to regulatory procedures, inter- to include competence, confidence highest percentages of healthcare get better result, adding that at the professional rivalry and the lack and commitment, along with other workforce and healthcare end of the day, it is the patient who of collaboration in the private ingredients such as mutual respect, expenditure, whereas the African benefits the most. health facilities that account for 70 trust and communication. region with the highest global Congratulating Lawal, per cent of healthcare delivery in She highlighted the Nigerian disease burden also has the lowest Fola Tayo described her as an Nigeria. Federal Ministry of Health’s workforce serving its population. exceptional and dedicated The former PSN president urged presentations on Task Shifting and The distinguished scholar professional who, though was his the federal government through Task Sharing Policy for Essential stated further that it was important student in clinical pharmacy years the Federal Ministry of Health to Healthcare Services as evidence to continue to communicate the back, has today become a dear intervene with better funding and of work done at the very centre of need for all healthcare practitioners daughter. programmes to implement past and government in this regard, with the to work together to get better The keynote speaker, Prof. future resolutions and strategies for onus on healthcare professionals to patient-oriented results. Celebrating 40 Years of Uninterrupted Monthly Publication (1979-2019) years Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 31
Pharmanews App now available on Google Play store, Apple Store, Windows Store } 32 }Interview Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 Weak policies, poor location, lack of passion main killers of pharmacy business - Ogbu harm. Chima Agnelius By Adebayo Oladejo Ogbu is the immediate the great achievements of In recent times, there have past national publicity our predecessors in PSN, been cases of community P Rivers State, especially pharmacies closing down secretary, Association of Community Pharmacists of that of the immediate past for one reason or the other. Nigeria (ACPN), and chief Chairman, Pharm. Wale As a community pharmacist executive officer (CEO), Oladigbolu. So the state is yourself, what would you say Medigate Pharmaceutical in good hands. are the major reasons for this Company Limited, Port Harcourt, To do this, we have unfortunate development and Rivers State. In this exclusive developed strategies that what can be done about it? interview with Pharmanews, will address short, middle Community pharmacy Ogbu, who is now the chairman, and long term challenges practice, like all practices and Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria facing pharmacists businesses in Nigeria, are going (PSN), Rivers State Branch, reveals and the pharmacy through turbulent times due to his administration’s objectives profession in the state, the “economic swings” in our for pharmacists in the state, especially competences, country. Nigeria has passed while also evaluating the state of capacity, access to through a period of recession pharmacy practice, especially finance, infrastructure, and technological disruptions community pharmacy practice, in effective regulation and and community pharmacy Nigeria. Excerpts: enforcement, mentoring practice has responded Pharm. Chima Agnelius Ogbu and, most importantly, effectively with the ongoing What are your objectives 2019. My objectives are to frontier developments in every trans-generational project of our for PSN-Rivers State and how aggregate the best of our human areas of practice and business national leadership. do you intend to achieve them? and material resources in the for the great Rivers pharmacists. Essentially, weak regulation I was elected on 30 April, sustenance and advancement of and enforcement, low capital base, lack of access to low interest funds, low capacity utilisation, poor entrepreneurial knowledge, inability or unwillingness to adapt to technologically driven new ideas and processes, poor mentorship, poor location and lack of passion are some of the factors responsible for these unfortunate occurrences. However, community pharmacists must develop creative ways to survive in the face of technological disruptions and complex operating environments. We must be ready to do things differently to sustain our relevance and profitability in the emerging competitive global space. What are your thoughts on the recent increase in NAFDAC’s charges that was eventually reversed? NAFDAC’s core mandate is to safeguard the health and well-being of Nigerians through the production, importation, distribution and consumption of quality drugs, foods medicinal agents and appliances. To do these, it was right for NAFDAC, as a responsible and responsive organisation of government, to be sensitive to the agitations of stakeholders and the consuming public against a fresh regime of tariff increase in the face of the current harsh economy realities in our country. To this end, I must commend the leadership of NAFDAC for reversing what would have been a major obstacle to government’s desire towards sustainable growth in the healthcare delivery system of our dear country. What measures do you think could help reduce the cost of medicines in Nigeria to ensure ordinary Nigerians are able to afford quality medicines and not resort to patronising quacks for fake? Availability and affordability of quality medicines are the core objectives of the third Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of the United Nations. Nigeria, as a major player in the global community and the most populous black nation, must rise
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Pharmanews App now available on Google Play store, Apple Store, Windows Store 34 }Natural Medicine } Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 Studies show that sugarcane Sugarcane: Much more than sweetness juice protects against tooth Pharm. Ngozika Okoye MPH, MSc, FPCPharm decay and bad breath, due (Nigeria Natural Medicine Development Agency) to its high mineral content. Sugarcane has copious amounts ocally known as arakke of vitamin B9 and folic acid, which (Hausa), achara mmako or protect the unborn child from okpete (Igbo) and ireke birth defects, such as spina bifida. L According to studies, (Yoruba), sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum), belongs to the sugarcane juice also helps grass family Poaceae. Though it women with ovulating problems, is native to Papua New Guinea, therefore increasing the it has become a part of the crop probability of a safer conception. production of more than half of Sugarcane juice helps to replenish the world There are 36 varieties lost proteins and helps in speedy available. recovery from fever. Constituents: Apart from Adverse effects: An sugar, sugarcane contains some ingredient called policosanol, minerals like potassium, calcium, present in sugarcane, can magnesium, iron, manganese, cause insomnia, upset stomach, vitamins and other nutrients like dizziness, headaches and weight resins, hydrogen cyanides and loss if consumed excessively. It alkaloids, which are mainly in low can also cause blood thinning and quantity. can affect the cholesterol levels in Saccharum officinarum the blood. Preparations: Sugarcane can and after consultation with their either be eaten in pieces or drunk stomach infections and exhibits Economic potentials: Some laxative properties, further doctors. of the world’s most consumed as juice, either plain or topped with mint, lemon juice, ginger improving bowel movement. or used products come from It also prevents heart diseases Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) sugarcane. 70 per cent of world or black rock salt. Sugarcane which are part of the natural juice may be applied to the skin and stroke, as it helps decrease sugar production comes from the levels of unhealthy constituents of sugarcane juice sugarcane. By-products of directly or added to face mask help to fight acne, reduce and scrub. cholesterol and triglycerides. sugarcane processing include blemishes, prevent ageing molasses (used in making rum), As sugarcane juice is high in and help in keeping the skin ethanol and bagasse (used as Pharmacological actions hydrated. The and medicinal uses: Sugarcane soluble fibre, it has natural sugars biofuel). and reduces the bad cholesterol diuretic properties of sugarcane Results of a study revealed juice is alkaline in nature, because juice helps in treating urinary of the high concentration of levels in the body. It also helps in that every stage of the commodity reducing weight. tract infections, kidney stones chain is profitable. If research is calcium, magnesium, potassium, and ensure proper functioning iron, and manganese, which helps Sugarcane contains natural well funded, local technology in sugar, which has a low glycaemic of the kidneys. It also helps sugarcane could save Nigeria prevent diseases like cancer that to strengthen the liver and is, cannot survive in an alkaline index, that prevents a steep rise in foreign exchange of more than blood glucose levels in diabetics. thus, suggested as an excellent $100 billion annually, make environment. remedy for jaundice. Sugarcane juice aids in So it can act as a substitute for Nigeria self-reliant in sugar aerated drinks for them. However, Sugarcane juice is a good production by the year 2020 digestion, due to its high source of glucose, which helps to potassium levels; prevents people with Type-2 diabetes and facilitate the emergence of should consume it in moderation re-hydrate the human body and Nigeria as a developed nation. gives it a boost of energy.
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Pharmanews App now available on Google Play store, Apple Store, Windows Store 36 }News } Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 Intellectual property protection system required to fight counterfeiting, says Adewopo - As American Business Council, US embassy, hold IP symposium By Temitope Obayendo former Director General that such IP system requires of the Nigerian Copyright the collaboration of both the A Commission (NCC), private and the public sectors, Prof. Adebambo Adewopo stressing that this is necessary (SAN) has emphasised the because while the private need for a strong intellectual sector comprises the owners of property right (IP) system in the medicines, the public sector the pharmaceutical industry to helps in the enforcement of laws protect investments in research against counterfeiting of the and development efforts, noting products. that this is an effective way to “A synergy is highly needed, curb the rampant menace of for instance, among NAFDAC, drug counterfeiting. Customs and SON, as they are all Adewopo, who is the responsible in different ways in first professor of Intellectual ensuring that counterfeiting is Property Law in Nigeria, made subdued in the country,” he said. this submission at the Intellectual L-R: Isioma Idigbe, associate, Punuka Attorney & Solicitors of Universal Music; The former NCC DG Property Symposium, organised Gabriel Ogunyemi, country manager, Janssen Pharmaceuticals Nigeria; also said that opportunities Margaret Olele, chief executive officer & secretary, American Business Council by the American Business and David Lossignol, president, International Trademark Association, during and challenges of the global Council, in collaboration with the the First Intellectual Property Symposium on copyright piracy and counterfeit economy can only leave an United States Mission in Nigeria (pharmaceutical), held in Lagos. unconnected country behind. and the Nigerian government, at the Eko Hotel & Suites, Victoria Presenting the keynote His words: “While the IP Island, Lagos, recently. address, Adewopo stated further debate has not been entirely new, one of the missing elements has been effective collaboration and cooperation that is needed to drive the debate and build momentum, not only for achieving reform but also to combat both the domestic and worldwide industry of counterfeiting, piracy and cybercrime. “Building strategic alliances within and outside the country is therefore critical, considering the global nature of digital technologies that are readily available to this formidable industry. In these alliances, we are also seeking to strengthen key institutions responsible for protecting IP and combating counterfeiting and piracy,” Adewopo stated. The symposium, which was widely attended by top government functionaries and policy makers in different sector of the economy, had in attendance, Director General, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye; Chief Executive, Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), Mr Babatunde Irukera; Director General of Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC), Mr John Asein; Director General, National Agricultural Seed Council (NASC), Dr Olusegun Ojo; senior officials of the Nigeria Police, Nigerian Army, Nigeria Customs Service; representative of the Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) among others. Addressing participants at the symposium, Tanya Y. Hill, International Computer Hacking (ICHIP) attorney adviser, Sub- Saharan Africa, United States Department of Justice, expressed delight in the coming together of leading minds across Nigeria to examine the benefits of strong intellectual property protection and enforcement to the Nigerian creative, pharmaceutical, and industrial sectors, and the impact on the diversification of continued on page 38 Celebrating 40 Years of Uninterrupted Monthly Publication (1979-2019) years Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 37
Pharmanews App now available on Google Play store, Apple Store, Windows Store } 38 }News Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 Intellectual property protection system required to fight counterfeiting, continued from page 36 says Adewopo the Nigerian economy. She noted that the two- day symposium would launch the Regional Pharmaceutical Crime Working Group, with the responsibility of building on the capacity programming that the U.S Department of Justice (USDOJ) office of Overseas Prosecutorial Development and Training (OPDAT) had undertaken in the region to address the illicit trade in counterfeit pharmaceuticals. U.S. Embassy Chargé d’affaires, Kathleen FitzGibbon, in her remarks, noted that the whole essence of intellectual property rights protection is to enhance innovation and L-R: Chief Executive Officer, Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), creativity needed to bolster Mr Babatunde Irukera; Director General, National Agricultural Seed Council (NASC), Dr Olusegun economic growth. Ojo; Director General, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), While highlighting some Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye; representative of Comptroller-General of Nigeria Customs, Col. Hameed Ali (Rtd) and Director General of Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC), Mr John Asein, at the merits of intellectual property symposium. rights protection to include jobs creations and opening of new markets for goods and services, she said the challenge is actually a global issue. “This is not just an American issue, this is a global issue and as Nigeria moves ahead with goals of diversifying and shifting to a knowledge-based economy, a strong intellectual property rights regime will help attract investment and protect Nigerian ideas and Nigerian businesses,” FitzGibbon said. Responding to the discussion on inter-agencies collaboration, the NAFDAC DG, Prof. Adeyeye, concurred with the submission of Adewopo, but alleged that the management of SON had not been helping in terms of proper cooperation, noting that while SON was supposed to monitor and regulate each component of a product, that had not been the case in Nigeria. Adeyeye, who expressed her worries over the state of things in the country, said the laws that created the agencies were causing more issues for them, as the question of ‘who controls what?’ among sister agencies has always been an issue. She said: “A situation where a primary agency has become a secondary agency is what we have at hand. And this is not so with the United States SON or FDA, but we have problems here; thus, we need to see how to make things work, because if it is working in the U.S., it should work here in Nigeria.” Also speaking at the event, Margaret Olele, chief executive officer, American Business Council, said the symposium was a result-driven advocacy against counterfeiting and piracy, noting that when several voices come together to reverberate and share the challenges around counterfeiting or piracy, there would be sure solutions. “Talking about it is always the first step, pulling together people who will talk about it, like the lawmakers, policy makers, and looking at how we’ll slowly but surely kick against the issue of counterfeiting and piracy is critical”, she emphasised.
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Pharmanews App now available on Google Play store, Apple Store, Windows Store 40 }News } Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 PSN-YPG bemoans exodus of young pharmacists to other countries professionals in the coming years. - Urge support for SDGs 2030 “I must say that the issue By Omolola Famodun of poor working conditions has he Pharmaceutical Society of become the latest thorn in the flesh Nigeria Young Pharmacists of young pharmacists, with multiple TGroup (PSN-YPG), Lagos cases being brought to our notice. State chapter has lamented the I would like to admonish every increasing exodus of young employer of young pharmacists to pharmacist from the shores of review their policies and ensure the country, warning that except the best working conditions the right steps are taken to stem possible as maltreatment of young the tide, there may be a severe pharmacists in any form will not be shortage of pharmacists in the condoned. country soon. “We are actively trying to solve Speaking with Pharmanews these issues in collaboration with during the recent Lagos PSN-YPG the necessary stakeholders. As Week opening ceremony, themed, such, I will like to encourage young “Young Pharmacists as Champions pharmacists to seek to offer value of the SDG 2030” and held at wherever they are and continue Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, Pharm. to follow due process when issues Funmbi Okoya, coordinator, PSN- arise. The respective PSN-YPG YPG, Lagos chapter, said young state chapters remain the first port pharmacists are facing quite a L-R: Mr Oluwafemi Boboye, workshop co-ordinator of Nigeria youth of call to report any issues relating number of challenges related to SDGs network; Dr (Mrs) Moyosore Adejumo, director of pharmaceutical to young pharmacists,” he said. insufficient internship placement, services, Lagos Ministry of Health; Mr Seun Fakorede, commisioner Speaking on why the event was poor remuneration, and poor for youths and sports, Oyo State and Mr Ajadi Michael, mental health programmes lead. organised, Okoya said Pharmacy working conditions, all of which is a very versatile profession with are contributing to a surge in the Young pharmacists, he said, left unresolved, Nigeria will be facing skills and knowledge that are of exodus of young pharmacists to are leaving for better pastures, a situation of grave insufficiency relevance to numerous sectors, the diaspora. adding that if these issues are of the most accessible healthcare noting that young pharmacists’ active involvement in the achievement of the SDGs will contribute immensely to creating the ideal future. He stated further that as healthcare professionals, pharmacists can drive the implementation of SDG 3 (good health and wellbeing) and SDG 6 (clean water and sanitation), adding that pharmacists as owners of businesses and employers of labour in the manufacturing industry and retail pharmacy space also have important roles to play in SDG 8 (decent work and economic growth), SDG 9 (industry, innovation and infrastructure), and SDG 12 (responsible consumption and production). “As educators, we can contribute to SDG 4 (quality education) and educate more people about the 17 SDGs and how they can contribute towards them,” Okoya said. Speaking on the future of young pharmacists in Nigeria, he said as youths, young pharmacists can be the driving force for development in the society as change-makers, innovators, communicators, critical thinkers, and leaders. He also encouraged young pharmacists to be change agents, noting that they need to stop pointing fingers and instead seek to get involved either through their organisation/companies or through an NGO. They should also get involved in local politics, he said. Pharm. Okoya equally urged the young pharmacists to seek to be a part of the future being built for them, adding that they should learn more about the 17 SDGs and how they can help transform Nigeria by 2030. Also speaking at the grand ceremony attended by many young pharmacists, Mr Seun Fakorede, commissioner for youths and sports, Oyo State, advised the young pharmacists to stop feeling young and start taking responsibilities, adding that there is a need for a paradigm shift in the pharmaceutical sector and that the young pharmacists are the ones that can implement this shift. “It is high time young pharmacists took action and stop excuses which are good reasons for bad results,” he said. He also urged pharmacists to make proper use of the Internet, noting that everyone can have an idea about anything. He advised them to go online to learn how to sew clothes, make bags, shoes, arts and crafts, adding that they can also learn how to start a business on YouTube.
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Celebrating 40 Years of Uninterrupted Monthly Publication (1979-2019) } years Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 }Health & Wealth 43 Seven habits of truly happy people By Pharm. Sesan Kareem ne of the genuine needs of human beings is happiness. Take responsibility: You to never-ending improvement People spend their entire can’t be truly happy if you don’t in who they are and what they O do. Your progress is a serious lives looking for true happiness. take responsibility for your They work night and day just actions. Truly happy people business and you must focus your to become successful in order complain less, blame less and attention on it. Becoming better to find joy. However it seems compare less. They take personal and better on a daily basis should happiness is so difficult to find responsibility for their mistakes, be your mantra. Tony Robbins nowadays in our world of show failures, successes and happiness. wisely said, “Happiness equals off and materialism. Many people Being truly happy is your personal progress.” responsibility. Take charge. For questions or comments, mail are frustrated, unhappy and Be a blessing to others: or text sesankareem2@gmail. depressed because they haven’t com/08072983163 Define what happiness Happiness doesn’t come from even defined what happiness what we get, it only comes from means to them and how they can means to you: Many people want seven habits elucidated above to be truly happy but they have what we give. If you develop the will help you to be happy, stay achieve true happiness. habit of consciously giving back Achieving true happiness never taken the time to define happy and share happiness with what happiness really means to others, you will experience others. They will help you to lift is not that difficult. Truly happy true happiness. And we all have people have developed habits to them. Little wonder why they your head above the challenges are not happy. To me, happiness what we can give. So give freely, of life during difficult moments. for over 6,000 years of human contribute wholeheartedly existence. There are days I have means doing what I love, taking They will enable you to stay afloat care of my family, achieving my and share graciously, without during good times. been sad and frustrated; so I expecting anything in return. You know what it is to feel helpless, set goals and becoming better on a daily basis. Define what true can’t buy happiness with money I can guarantee you that the hopeless and worthless. However, or knowledge but you can use regardless of what life throws at happiness means to you and work more you inculcate these habits towards your standard. both to create happiness if you into your lifestyle, the more you me I have developed the habits of use them to bless others. staying on top of my game, finding experience true happiness with my true happiness and sharing Surround yourself with good all its benefits. people: People have enormous Count your blessings: that state of joy and peace with Gratitude is a sure way to achieve people around me. effect on our emotional state in ACTION PLAN: Be authentic. life. Therefore, you must be careful true happiness. In fact, gratitude Take responsibility for your is your door to unlimited joy, The seven habits below who you surround yourself with. happiness. Surround yourself You can’t surround yourself with peace and pleasure. If you with good people. Be grateful. will help you to achieve true develop the habit of consciously happiness. negative people and expect to Share happiness with others and be truly happy. You need positive counting your blessings, which, commit to personal growth. by the way, are numerous and Be authentic: Those who vibes and energy to sail through the tough journey of life. When life you feel sincere gratitude for AFFIRMATION: Happiness are truly happy are true to these blessings, your life will be themselves. They accept who they throws you heavy punches, it is is my birthright. I am blessed and good people that will encourage filled with positive energy and highly favoured. are, embrace their strengths and contentment. You see, you can’t be weaknesses and are comfortable you to stand up, move up and show up in order to step up. grateful and still feel miserable or Sesan Kareem helps individuals in their own skin. Happiness bitter or frustrated. So, be good to naturally flows to those who and organisations achieve lasting Commit to personal growth. yourself and develop the habit of results by coaching them to have embrace their uniqueness and gratitude. love who they are wholeheartedly. You can’t be truly happy if you are fast tempo for action and a bias for Be thyself. stagnant in life. True happiness bottom line. comes to those who are committed While life is a combination of good times and bad times, the
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Pharmanews App now available on Google Play store, Apple Store, Windows Store } 46 }CEO of the Month Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 Why Oculus is an industry leader in ophthalmic preparation – Ezeiru - Explains why he still tells people he is a sales rep By Yusuff Moshood would you say distinguishes your colleagues, your juniors, your the company from others who suppliers and your customers. To also are into marketing of eye have spent some time in sales trains products? and prepares you to communicate Yes, other companies have effectively, and to “win friends and made entry into the ophthalmics influence people.” I have no regret. market. Are they the same as our I still tell people that I am a sales rep. company? The answer is a big no! As our name suggests, we are Oculus Pharmacare Ltd. If the As a foundation stakeholder of Ophthalmic preparation is not of Oculus, what were the objectives Oculus, then it is something less. of the company at inception and We have a combination what is the level of achievements of core differentiations that of these objectives? separate our ophthalmics from Oculus was initially promoted those of other companies. They (co-founded) by three ex-Ciba- are located within the canopies Geigy employees and is fully owned of, one, product differentiation by 13 Nigerian shareholders. Our – where our products show mission at inception was to provide performance, conformance and high quality healthcare products reliability. The second is located and first class services to our in channel differentiation – various partners and associates, showing coverage and skills while satisfying the interest of all set of expertise of positioning stakeholders. the products. Then, the third, So far we have kept which is quite strong, comes that promise. The level of with reputation and image achievements is quite high differentiation as a result of and we are ready to utilise perception and communication. the lessons learnt to improve As you know, Oculus has further on our results. We try come a long way in ophthalmics. to remember that medicine Once our name is associated with is for the patient. We also try an eye product, the customers not to forget that medicine is and healthcare practitioners who for the people. Over the years, know what our company stands Oculus has been known for for or represents, will go for it. distributing products of top Talk about source credibility and quality standards. Patients and reliability! people go for our products when they are not prepared to gamble. As the new CEO of Oculus, what are your short, medium Profit – as important as it is – is and long term visions for the not why Oculus was set up. It was set company? up for more fundamental reasons, as I Arising from my nature, I have already stated. You should keep want to make things work well, in mind that profit will follow if the then better, then the best they needs of the patients and people are possibly can be – I have never satisfied. been in anything for the short haul. On assumption of the new Oculus has gone through some office, I told members of staff tough times since its inception, at Oculus that the catchphrase what would you say is the greatest for all of us is “continuous challenge the company has faced improvement”. I really want this Pharm. (Sir) Valentine Ezeiru and how was it surmounted? concept to be an institutionalised The greatest challenge we have habit for Oculus – a disciplined harm. (Sir) Valentine Ezeiru, the managing director/chief executive had was in the area of representing way of life, to be ingrained into officer (MD/CEO) of Oculus Pharmacare Limited is a Fellow of the third party companies in the country. the fabric of our company. It PPharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (FPSN) and the West African You can imagine putting all you have simply means doing everything Postgraduate College of Pharmacists (FPCPharm). He is also a member of - expertise, skills sets, character, possible to make Oculus stronger Institute of Directors (MIoD). cultivated values and commitment - tomorrow than it is today. Graduating from the university in 1979, with a B. Pharm degree, to grow some brands on behalf of a I seek, together with my team, Ezeiru worked with Ciba-Geigy from 1983 to 1991. He started as a medical company, and several years after the to do very well in the short-term representative and rose through the ranks to become national sales brands have become very successful and also do very well in the long- manager. in your market, you wake up one term. It means that Oculus cannot In this exclusive interview with Pharmanews, Ezeiru, an active day to be informed that the brands afford to slip in the medium term. member of International Pharmaceutical Federation (MFIP) speaks on the are to be withdrawn from your local In the past, I was not able to use intrinsic link between effective communication and selling and why he market by the licence holder. Or my full potential. This headship still tells people he is a sales representative despite being the MD/CEO of that the licence holder wants to take has given me the chance to test Oculus. over the marketing and distribution the entire set of skills I acquired Ezeiru, a foundation stakeholder of Oculus and the executive of the brands you have successfully over the years within the short director, sales and regulatory affairs for the company until his appointment introduced and established in the term. I will set up systems and as the MD/CEO early this year, also outlines the objectives of the company at country of your operation. Standard Operating Procedures inception and how the company navigated through tough times to become It is quite sad, stressful and can (SOPs) in all elements of the not just the industry leader in ophthalmic preparations but a reputable and be very difficult for local operators company’s operations, monitor trusted firm of choice for ophthalmic products in the country. Excerpts: and investors. How do you handle compliance and encourage such a challenging situation? For me, utilisation of these tools to You could have chosen to be a started their career, or at least had there are two ways. One way is to achieve quick results and deliver production, academic or hospital spent some time in their career, in be an agent to many companies and more than what is expected of my pharmacist but you chose to sales. I wanted to get to the top one to be ready to replace, as quickly as team and me. focus on sales and marketing. day. possible, any that is taken away with As for the long-term goal, I What prompted that decision? Sales job really gives you an another viable one. Another way is will seek bigger targets so that I was interested in sales appreciation of what happens at to register your own brands without I can continuously test myself. because I had and still have the “sharp end” – at the customer infringing on the rights and character Bigger targets can be tough. My great interpersonal skills and interface. I also knew that very few of the agreements you have with the long term goal is to be a leader I’m passionate about providing purely technical people got to the companies you are representing. who challenges our workers to excellent customer service. At an top rank. achieve more than they ever early stage, I realised that most chief No matter what job you do, you Oculus is today a major player thought possible and together, executives and senior managers spend a lot of your time selling: in the industry and a leader we will really grow Oculus to of multinational companies either selling ideas to your bosses, in ophthalmic products. What become a great company. Celebrating 40 Years of Uninterrupted Monthly Publication (1979-2019) years Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No.11 47
Pharmanews App now available on Google Play store, Apple Store, Windows Store } 48 }News Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 Weak policies, poor location, lack of passion main FIP World killers of pharmacy business - Ogbu Congress 2019: must find the political will to Pharmacists continued from page 32 our effort as a nation to tackle close the open drug markets the menace of fake drugs? across the nation, empower and react to the occasion by ensuring that Are there other measures we continued from page 58 medicines’ quality is optimal, at should be taking? equip the Pharmacists Council affordable costs. I have said this in different of Nigeria (PCN) to function “Great learning Government must enforce fora and I will continue to say effectively and ensure that platform” relevant pharmacy laws and find it that “access” is key in our only licensed pharmacists and the political will to implement efforts to tackle the menace of trained health professionals are he conference was a the already approved National allowed to handle medicines wonderful experience. This fake drugs in Nigeria. Block the is my first time at an FIP Drug Distribution Guidelines access and you solve most of the and medical products in Nigeria. T (NDDG). Beyond these, the The world has come to realise conference and it was an eye- problem. The current situation that the best health systems opener for me. I have been able local pharma industries and where every Dick and Harry is to interact with pharmacists manufacturers must have access allowed to import, distribute without quality and affordable from around the world. to low interest funds to source and retail prescription and drugs will come to nothing. The lectures and presentations quality and affordable active non-prescription medications were very educative. It was a great pharmaceutical ingredients is regrettable and counter- What is your assessment learning platform for me and I think (APIs), excipients and productive. of government’s efforts to other pharmacists from Nigeria. It machineries. In support of my leader, the tame the problem of drug will help us to navigate the wheels At the downstream, NAFDAC abuse in the country, what are of change taking place in the world President of Pharmaceutical successfully. and the PCN must work with the Society of Nigeria (PSN), Mazi we doing right and what are PSN and other stakeholders and we doing wrong as a nation? The ideas shared will surely Sam Ohuabunwa, we must For the record, drug abuse help us to improve our practice and relevant government agencies ring-fence the pharmaceutical make the necessary changes to get to restore sanity in the system space in Nigeria to restore and misuse is a global problem. to the next level. and eliminate all forms of professionalism, quality care In Nigeria, there is a recent quackery and medicines faking and services to the teeming dangerous upsurge in the in the nation. medicine-consuming public. incidence of drug and substance Specifically, government What is your assessment of continued on page 50
Pharm. Samson Oladimeji Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), Ondo State. “Forum for new topics and ideas” his 2019 FIP conference was quite interesting. There Twere educative lectures on new innovations and new school of thoughts as regards pharmacy practice. I will say that participants from Nigeria have learnt a lot. There are things we have picked up that we can implement in our practice to improve. I have learnt about gene therapy in pharmacy practice, new ideas on how countries are managing the issue of expired drugs and about green pharmacy which focused on how we can ensure our practice is environment friendly. We need to start looking at how we can embrace these ideas. This must not end at just listening to the lectures. We must begin to implement the ideas that we have picked up. Pharm. Michael Iwe O.B. Jackson Foundation, Anambra State.
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Pharmanews App now available on Google Play store, Apple Store, Windows Store } 50 }Industry News Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 Hexagon nutrition supplements
exagon nutrition launched in Lagos agencies, businesses and the products, manufactured research community among Hby Hexagon Nutrition, others, had started prioritising a global nutrition company nutrition as a development headquartered in India but with and economic issue, adding presence in over 72 countries, that there is increased political has been officially introduced engagement on nutrition, an into the Nigerian market. example of which he said is the The launch of PentaSure recent school feeding initiative Hexagon Nutrition Supplements of the Nigerian government. was held recently at a ceremony While restating the chaired by Dr (Pharm.) Mrs commitment of his company Moyosore Adejumo, director to help scale up nutrition in of pharmaceutical services, Nigeria from paediatrics to Ministry of Health, Lagos State geriatrics, he noted that the new and held at Ethal Hotel & Halls global direction for nutrition is in Oregun. to focus on prevention rather Speaking at the event, than curative. Pharm. Johnson Olusetire, In her opening remarks, managing director of Olpharm L-R: Pharm. (Dr) Mrs Moyosore Adejumo, chairman of the occasion; Adejumo, while praising Nutrition, whose company Mr Femi Soremekun, MD/CEO, Biofem Group and Pharm. Johnson Olusetire for his support over partnered with Hexagon to Olusetire,MD, Olpharm Nutrition, during the event. the years to the Lagos State bring the products to Nigeria, government, lamented that said that bringing the nutrition scaling up of nutrition movement, foundation for development. statistics on malnutrition had supplements to Nigeria was to noting that global bodies had Olusetire said that not improved despite years of help contribute to the global identified good nutrition as the governments, development talking about it. She said that it is pertinent for Nigerians to begin to admit that supplements can really help those who have nutrition challenges, either as a result of old age or ill health, adding that she had had experiences of having to rely on supplements for some relatives when they were unwell. Some of the supplements introduced at the event were PentaSure DM, for diabetes care; PediaGold, daily nutrition for growing children; EvaCare, nutrition for women and PentaSure Immunomax, an immune-enhancing nutritional supplement. Weak policies, poor location, lack of passion main killers of pharmacy business - Ogbu continued from page 48 abuse, especially among our youths and women. We’re all aware of the codeine imbroglio and the embarrassment it caused to our health system. In taming this menace, government must do more in areas of advocacy, drug control, restricted access to medicines of abuse, improved family values and educational systems, effective drug laws enforcement and social rehabilitation and integration of affected persons. Here in Rivers State, the PSN Drug and Substance Abuse Committee (DSAC) is already leading the war against the menace in the state, in partnership with the state drug and substance abuse reduction committee of the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders. We have organised stakeholders’ roundtable, erected giant billboards at strategic points in Port Harcourt, sponsored some pharmacists to attend trainings on drug and substance abuse, carried out advocacy visits to schools, markets and churches and engaged the traditional and social media in reaching out to the populace. As pharmacists, we shall continue to join forces with government and other stakeholders to free our society of this menace. years Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 51
Pharmanews App now available on Google Play store, Apple Store, Windows Store } 52 }News Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 Sanwo-Olu urges nurses to embrace eHealth in achieving SDGs - As FOLGONM holds 10th annual conference/scientific workshop o achieve the health By Temitope Obayendo realisation of these targets will components of the improve the lives of people in our TSustainable Development communities, our families and Goals (SDGs) in Lagos State, even our own health”, she said. it is imperative for nurses to She further stressed that scale up their practices with the nurses have key roles to play in application of eHealth, which will attaining the SDGs especially goal enhance effective healthcare three, which is related to health, adding however that in performing delivery to patients at the these roles, there is need for grassroots, particularly those additional support to nurses, in underserved communities, given their competencies and the Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu extremely inadequate number of of Lagos State has said. nurses throughout the world. Sanwo-Olu was the Going forward in advancing distinguished guest of honour healthcare delivery system in the at the 10th Annual Conference/ country, she charged nurses to Scientific Workshop of the Lagos strive to make their voices heard, State Chapter of Forum for Local as well as participating in actions Government Nurses and Midwives that may assist in changing health (FOLGONM), held at the Adeyemi policies for the benefits of patients. Bero Hall, Alausa, Ikeja, from 15 to Earlier on, the Lagos State 18 October 2019. FOLGONM Chairman, Com. The governor, who was Mary Lateef–Yusuf, in her represented by Mr Akeem th welcome address appreciated Muri-Okunola, head of service, A cross section of participants the 10 Annual Conference/ all nurse delegates from the 57 Lagos State, at the conference, Scientific Workshop of the Lagos State Chapter of Forum for Local Local Government Areas in the commended the local government Government Nurses and Midwives (FOLGONM). state, noting that FOLGONM is a nurses for their efforts in manning pressure group under the parent several health centres without must always upgrade their skills (LASUCOM), noted that nurses body of the National Association doctors, saying that the government and professional qualities like have key roles to play for the health of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives was aware of all their commitments emotional intelligence, readiness components of the SDGs to be (NANNM). in caring for the populace. to attend to patients, motivational actualised. Concerning the achievement He however implored them to skill, empathy and ability to adapt She challenged nurses to of SDGs, she said efforts and take advantage of digital health by to a changing environment, to put their professional knowledge will were needed to install upgrading their knowledge on the create a healthier nation.” into use in preventing child and infrastructure that would support use of technologically based tools Speaking on the theme of maternal deaths, end extreme inclusive growth, enhance access to advance healthcare delivery the conference, “Sustainable poverty, improve quality of life, and to basic services and promote in the state, which, he said would Development Goals: Nurses at the end violence and oppression, in environmental sustainability of the cause a decrease in morbidity and Forefront of Transforming Lives order to have justice in the society. goals. mortality rates. Today and Tomorrow”, the keynote “The SDGs presents us with an He said: “Nurses must realise speaker, Mrs Modupe Shode, opportunity to apply the knowledge She further noted that the sub- that they are pivotal to healthcare clinical instructor, Department we have acquired as nurses to delivery in the state as well as of Nursing Science , Lagos State create a healthier and better world continued on page 70 the nation, and as such, they University College of Medicine for the citizens of our nation. The years Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 53
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Pharmanews App now available on Google Play store, Apple Store, Windows Store } 56 }News Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 AHAPN-Anambra gets new executives Temitope Obayendo he Association of Hospital and Administrative Pharmacists Tof Nigeria (AHAPN) Anambra State Chapter, has elected a crop of new executives to pilot the affairs of the association for the next three years. The election, conducted recently at the Anambra State PSN Secretariat in Awka, saw Pharm. (Dr) Amarachukwu Loveth Nwaka emerge as the new chairman, with Pharm. Marymartha Akubueze, as vice-chairman. Other members of the new executive committee are: Pharm. Florence Okolo, secretary; Pharm. Amaka Izuehie, assistant secretary; Pharm. Okonkwo Chinelo, publicity secretary; Pharm. Nkem Obiano, financial secretary; Pharm. Nonso Ndibe, treasurer; Pharm. (Mrs) Okoli Chisolu, internal auditor; Pharm. (Dr) Uchebo Obiageli, immediate past chairman; Pharm. (Mrs) Egbuonu Edith (DPS MOH), unofficial member; Pharm. (Dr) Joy Ichoku (DPS NAUTH), unofficial member; and Pharm. (Mrs) Gloria Nwosu (HOD COOUTH) unofficial member. Some of the new executives of Anambra AHAPN Speaking on behalf of the body of AHAPN to achieve their attendance to AHAPN meetings services; drug revolving fund; and new executives, the chairman collective goal of elevating hospital and to remind us of the ten points to research and documentation”, she expressed their acceptance of pharmacy practice in Nigeria and follow in order to move our practice said. the call to serve the association, enhancing of healthcare delivery. to the next level as outlined by She also appreciated the saying they were doing so with a She said this would be easily Prof. Erhun at the last AHAPN immediate past executives for deep sense of responsibility and achieved by embracing innovative National conference. They are: paving the way forward and moving humility. disruptions, not just to remain Personal capacity building; clinical the association ahead. While soliciting the maximum relevant in the scheme of things pharmacy practice; drug storage; “I also commend the effort of cooperation of all members of the but also to reposition hospital and drug procurement; rational use every one of us. Without you, there association, Nwaka reminded them administrative pharmacy practice. of drugs; hospital formulary and would be no AHAPN in the state”, of the need to work with the national “At this juncture, we wish drug list; drug and therapeutics she stated. to implore that we improve our committee; drug information
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Pharmanews App now available on Google Play store, Apple Store, Windows Store } 58 }Viewpoint Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 FIP World Congress 2019: Pharmacists react n this edition of Viewpoint, Pharmanews’ editor, Yusuff Moshood, who was in Abu Dhabi for the 2019 FIP World Congress, spoke with some Nigerian pharmacists at the conference on their assessment of we can be a much needed support Ithe event, as well as what they got from the global gathering of pharmacists. Below are their thoughts. to our medical colleagues rather than a rival group. There is much more to do than we are doing but “Eye-opening experience” “Interesting and if we remain at the level at which am glad to have been able to come to Abu Dhabi for the FIP conference. illuminating” many of us are operating and I am happy about the theme and I must say most of the speakers at the refuse to upgrade and adapt in our lecture sessions also did justice to the lectures. Many of the lectures practice, technology will phase us I out. were quite educative. enerally, the 2019 FIP We saw advanced technologies, new conference was an ways of doing things and we shared illuminating and interesting experiences with other people from G conference. I encountered other countries. For us from Nigeria, pharmacists from different climes we also saw how the practice is done and I discovered that there are in other low-income countries like ours many differences and also a lot of and this has encouraged and inspired common grounds. us to know that some things can still be For the Nigerian team, we done differently and better in Nigeria, need to work together as a despite our challenges, having seen team. We need to do research other countries with similar challenges and present evidence to our who are making changes and making government and our people on progress. the role we are capable of playing. At this conference, some of our We need to move from colleagues also made presentations, a knowledge-focused to a both oral and postal presentations. skill-focused training in our This shows we have the skillset and the pharmacy schools and internship know-how to accomplish the feats being trainings. We need to build our achieved in other countries. We just have competencies and capabilities Pharm. Tolulope to work together. and as a result, we shall build our Oluwafisayo Ekwe I’m also quite impressed with Abu Dhabi city. It’s actually my first confidence. Caderest Hospitals Limited, time here, and I must say that the people of Abu Dhabi and UAE in The Nigerian population Abuja general have been very friendly, very accommodating and nice. It has needs us. If we do the right things, been a great conference. - Pharm. (Mrs) Helen Adedoyin Oduntan, Formerly of University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Oyo State. “Model for how local “Gateway for innovative ideas conferences should be organised” about Pharmacy” he conference was a great intellectual discourse on how to improve he 2019 FIP conference in Abu Dhabi was a very great conference. We our practice and I was quite impressed. It was unlike our own were able to discuss with professional Tconference that is sometimes dominated by exhibition and trading. We had many good speakers who did Tcolleagues from all over the world justice to the lectures they took. on science and innovative ideas about My take home from this conference the pharmacy profession. is that we need to modify the way we For me and my colleagues back do things in Nigeria. There are new home, I will say that we have to continue ideas in our practice that we have to to champion easy access to medication take on board. There are new ideas and for patients and ensure patients get innovations in community, hospital and the best out of their medications. manufacturing practice. Changes are Pharmacy is taking a new dimension going on all over the world and we have to embrace these ideas to improve our and the practice is now more about practice. patient-centered-care and the roles of We need to do more about pharmacists in this new dimension has collaborations and sharing ideas evolved. as pharmacy is a global profession. We have to do more by providing We also need to learn from FIP in pharmaceutical care and help our organising our own conferences. We patients use medications safely to need to improve the academic content enable them get the best out of their while reducing the business content medications. at our annual conference. We need to Pharm. Adebola Lawal, have time stipulated for lectures and time for exhibition. Lagos State Pharm. Onyeka Obi Onitsha, Anambra State. “Fresh perspectives for practice improvement” “Engaging and educative was in Abu Dhabi because of the opportunity given to me by FIP. experience” I bagged an award and a travel scholarship grant from the FIP he conference was engaging and educative. I learnt a lot and IFoundation on Education and Research, which I am using to pursue found the lectures very useful. There are new ideas I have my PhD in Applied Pharmaceutical picked up that I believe will help Technology in Milan, Italy. I was the only T me improve in my practice. I am also one from Africa that bagged this award going to share these ideas with my so I am grateful to FIP. colleagues in Nigeria. The conference was very educative There are new innovations from as learnt about new perspectives in other parts of the world and some of practice from different parts of the these new ideas can help improve world. Colleagues from different parts our practice in Nigeria if we adopt of the world hared experiences about them. changes going on in our profession. This is my first time at FIP For some of us from Africa, there are conference, but from what I have new ideas we can embrace to improve experienced here, I would love to our practice. We can collaborate with attend many more FIP conference people from other parts of the world in future. I must also commend the to replicate some of these positive government of UAE and Abu Dhabi changes. So, the conference was a good in particular. The city is lovely with opportunity to learn new things, explore good infrastructure and the people and network. are very friendly. Pharm. Khalid Garba Pharm. Blessing Nnyagu, Muhammed, Dannyfaith Pharmacy, Bayero University, Kano, Kano State. Surulere, Lagos State. continued on page 48 Celebrating 40 Years of Uninterrupted Monthly Publication (1979-2019) years Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 59
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Pharmanews App now available on Google Play store, Apple Store, Windows Store } 62 }FIP Photonews Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 The International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) held the 79th edition of its World Congress of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE) from 22 to 26 September, 2019. Below are some pictures taken during the memorable event.
Pharm. Ahmed Yakasai, immediate past president, PSN (3rd from left); Pharm Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, president, PSN (4th from left); Pharm NAE Mohammed, Mr Dominique Jordan, president, FIP (second from left) with other dignitaries registrar, PCN (3rd from right) in a group photograph with some pharmacists from during the opening ceremony of the 2029 FIP conference. Nigeria during the conference.
Pharmacists from Nigeria at the 2019 FIP conference in a group L-R: Pharm. (Mrs) Ejiro Foyibo, PSN deputy president (North); Pharm. (Mrs) photograph at the conference venue in Abu Dhabi Arinola Joda, senior lecturer, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lagos and Dr Olubusola Olugbake also of Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lagos.
L-R: Mr Yusuff Moshood, editor, Pharmanews, Pharm. (Sir) Valentine Ezeiru, MD/ L-R: Pharm. Ignatius Anukwu, national chairman, NAIP; Pharm. Blessing CEO, Oculus PharmaCare Limited; Pharm. Ignatius Anukwu, national chairman, Nnyagu of Dannyfaith Pharmacy and Pharm. Patrick Osele, managing NAIP; Pharm. (Sir) Ike Onyechi, MD/CEO, Alpha Pharmacy; Pharm. IK Ugwu and director, Pemason Pharma Ltd. another pharmacist during the conference.
The PSN president (5th from right, front row) and some Nigerians at the FIP Pharm. Ahmed Yakasai, immediate past president, PSN (4th from left) with some conference in a group photograph with some senior officials of the Nigeria pharmacists during the conference. Embassy in Abu Dhabi, UAE, during a courtesy vist to the Embassy.
L-R: Pharm. Bankole Ezebuilo, Pharm. Lucky Ubokor, Pharm. Emeka Duru, The PSN president poses with some Nigerian pharmacists after making his Pharm. (Mazi) Sam Ohuabunwa, Pharm. Ignatius Anukwu with other delegates presentation during the FIP conference. during the conference. Celebrating 40 Years of Uninterrupted Monthly Publication (1979-2019) years Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No.11 63
Pharmanews App now available on Google Play store, Apple Store, Windows Store } 64 } Pharmanews Photonews Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 On 1 October 2019, friends and associates of Pharmanews Limited and Sir Ifeanyi Atueyi graced the 40th Anniversary of Pharmanews and 80th birthday of Sir Atueyi. The pictures below were taken during the event held at Sheba Event Centre, Mobolaji Bank Anthony way, Ikeja, Lagos.
Pharm. (Sir) Ifeanyi Atueyi and Lady Atueyi cutting the The Igwe of Okija and other dignitaries at the occasion anniversary cake with top dignitaries
Sir Atueyi (right) with GIPAA members. Sir & Lady Atueyi with some members of DMGS old boys
The unveiling of the autobiography of Sir Atueyi, titled, Sir & Lady Atueyi with fellows of PSN ‘My Life & Pharmanews’
Some of the top dignitaries at the occasion Other dignitaries at the occasion
L-R Pharm. (Mazi) Sam Ohuabunwa, his wife and Prince Dr. Stella Okoli, Sir Atueyi and Lady Joan Atueyi Julius Adelusi – Adeluyi Celebrating 40 Years of Uninterrupted Monthly Publication (1979-2019) years Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No.11 65 35
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Celebrating 40 Years of Uninterrupted Monthly Publication (1979-2019) } years Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 }Interview 67 Defeat of NAPPTON Bill proves healthcare professionals can collectively transform health sector – PCN registrar By Yusuff Moshood Closely related to this is lopsided Nigerian public. distribution between south and Similarly, the support of the north and urban versus rural Federal Ministry of Justice, NLRC, communities NGOs and well-meaning Nigerians However, the concept of Satellite clearly shows that Nigeria is not a Pharmacies and Hub and Spoke lawless country. models are the strategies being put Another lesson learnt is that in place to address these gaps and those institutions and individuals improve access to quality, safe and who are defrauding innocent effective medicines by majority Nigerians and making them to of Nigerians from regulated believe that there is a profession pharmaceutical premises. out there for them and making them pay so much money for courses that A major issue young have no bearing and relevance in pharmacists have had to contend the scheme of things in the Nigerian with is the issue of places of pharmaceutical landscape and internship. I know a lot has been indeed the health sector should stop done to address this issue, but these nefarious activities. what proactive measures should However, for those of them who we be taking as a nation to avoid have realised that they had been this type of issue? deceived all along to believe that The implementation of the there is a profession for them to central placement for internship practise upon their graduation, PCN by the federal government, as has put in place a rehabilitation proposed by the PCN, in the memo programme for them. to the immediate past Honourable Minister of Health, is the ultimate Two major issues which I step to effectively deal with the know are dear to you and crucial problem of difficulty of securing to the transformation of pharmacy internship placement by young practice in the country are pharmacists. hanging. They are the Pharmacy Let me also add that the PCN Bill and the implementation of has been able move her intern the National Drug Distribution intake from below ten interns Guidelines (NDDG). What are before 2014 to 65 presently. We your thoughts on this delay and hope to increase this number from Pharm. N. A. E. Mohammed how hopeful are you that these time to time. In addition, PCN has goals will eventually be achieved? stepped up accreditation exercise harm. N.A.E. Mohammed is the registrar of the Pharmacists The twin issues of the new of internship centres in public and Council of Nigeria (PCN). In this exclusive interview with Pharmacy Council Bill awaiting private facilities to create more PPharmanews, he reveals why the attempt by the National Presidential assent and full spaces for uptake of interns. Association of Pharmaceutical Technologists and Pharmacy implementation of the National Drug Distribution Guidelines (NDDG) What is the next level in Technicians (NAPPTON) to turn itself to a regulatory agency the implementation of your through the push for the NAPPTON Bill was a misstep that could are germane to effective regulation of the pharmaceutical sector of the strategic agenda for PCN and have brought chaos to pharmacy regulation in Nigeria.He also economy. pharmacists? speaks on how the PCN worked with the Pharmaceutical Society of Let me assure the pharmacy The next level in the Nigeria (PSN) and its technical arms, the Federal Ministry of Health, community that PCN is taking all implementation of my strategic the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) and other stakeholders, to necessary steps towards ensuring agenda for PCN and pharmacists is quash the controversial Bill, noting that the collective efforts of the that the Bill goes through the to consolidate on the successes of remaining stages of legislative my first tenure. healthcare professionals has further confirmed the long-held view This effort has started in earnest that when all professionals in the health sector collaborate and adoption and assent by the President in earnest. and shall be vigorously pursued. work in harmony, they can solve most of the problems facing the The key factor in the Great attention shall be given to health sector and reposition healthcare delivery for the benefit of implementation of the NDDG is the sanitising the practice environment Nigerians. Excerpts: relocation of the open drug markets through the strengthening of to Coordinated Wholesale Centres enforcement activities; as well as (CWC) and subsequent closure of ensuring experiential teaching A major issue that faced weak health system of the nation. and learning at the undergraduate Pharmacy in the last one year With all these in mind, the PCN the open drug markets. The journey towards achieving this task is very training of pharmacists to prepare was the attempt by pharmacy worked assiduously towards the them for the current practice technicians/pharmaceutical public hearing on the Bill by the much on course, irrespective of certain political/administrative environment. technologists to get own National Assembly in December, I will continue to promote regulatory agency through their 2018. The overwhelming facts encumbrances being experienced by the stakeholders in various states. the use of ICT in our regulatory push for the NAPPTON Bill. What and evidences presented by processes to facilitate interface were your first thoughts when the Federal Ministry of Health However, despite the challenges being currently experienced, I am of stakeholders with the Council. you learnt about the Bill and now (FMoH), Federal Ministry of Justice This includes redesigning of our that the idea has been quashed, (FMoJ), PCN, Pharmaceutical very optimistic that we shall achieve full implementation of the NDDG website to make it more functional what are the lessons to be learnt Society of Nigeria (PSN), and informative; GIS mapping of from that incident? Nigeria Medical Association and ultimately the closure of all open drug markets. pharmaceutical facilities to facilitate There is no doubt that the attempt (NMA), Nigeria Law Reform decision-making in inspectorate by the members of the National Commission (NLRC), African We have in recent years seen activities; and deployment of Association of Pharmaceutical Pharmaceutical Forum (APF), non- Computer Based Test (CBT) for PEP Technologists and Pharmacy governmental organisations, PSN a lot of upward momentum in pharmacy training as we now have examinations, among others. Technicians (NAPPTON) to turn the technical groups, and other well- PCN will pursue the association to a regulatory agency meaning Nigerians at the public more schools of pharmacy, thus improving on access to pharmacy implementation of the to regulate their members through hearing against the Bill were recommendations of the the National Assembly was nothing unprecedented. At the end, the education to Nigerians who desire it. However, there is still a lot of organisational capacity assessment but a misnomer. It was rightly National Assembly quashed the undertaken by HOWES Consulting so, because all over the world, Bill and the rest is history. ground to cover to improve our pharmacists/patient ratio. What Firm, which was sponsored by members of the sub-cadres of the However, the lessons learnt IntegratE project. pharmacy profession are regulated in the end are that the PCN did a measures are you taking not just to consolidate on successes In line with this, a new strategic exclusively by the Pharmacy post mortem to understand the plan shall also be put in place for Council of each country. immediate and remote factors that recorded so far but to strategically plan for the future? PCN to serve as roadmap for the To me, the first thought that led to the initiation of the Bill and organisation. The commencement came to mind about the Bill was thereafter designed strategies to According to the Nigeria Health Workforce Registry, published of PharmD programme by all the that, I saw it as an attempt by self- prevent future occurrence. accredited faculties of pharmacy seeking individuals to introduce Another very important by the Federal Ministry of Health (FMOH) in 2018, the country’s will be given topmost priority. chaos into pharmacy regulation in aspect was the collaboration So also will be discipline among Nigeria, the type that never exists displayed by the pharmacy profile in accordance with sub- Saharan standard is 10 pharmacists professionals. We will also anywhere in the world, and which community (PCN, PSN, technical ensure enforcement of rules and had the tendency to compromise groups, with support from elders per 100,000 population. This is grossly inadequate if we must regulations, while to promoting the safety of the medicine- of the profession and every “New Partnership for Progress consuming public, thereby further pharmacist), and the NMA reveals guarantee access to medicines that are qualitative, safe and effective Initiatives” which in turn will jeopardising public health. The that, collectively, we have what promote good working relationship overall effect of it would have been it takes to reposition healthcare medicines to majority of the citizen from regulated facilities. between PCN and all stakeholders a negative impact on the already delivery for the benefit of the in the pharmaceutical landscape. Pharmanews App now available on Google Play store, Apple Store, Windows Store } 68 }Industry News Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 Sanofi launches new Clexane doses for treatment, prevention of thrombosis By Yusuff Moshood lobal healthcare company, space available for Sanofi, has launched new other patients, adding GClexane doses to help that Sanofi had always address unmet medical needs and been committed to provide innovative therapeutic engaging with various options for the prevention and partners to identify treatment of thrombosis. areas of support to The new doses, the company address the VTE said, is to help improve outcomes challenge. in the management of venous Sanofi’s area of thromboembolism (VTE), support, she said, described as blood clots occurring included focusing as deep vein thrombosis and on driving VTE pulmonary embolism. awareness, capacity Speaking during the official building, partnerships launch of the medication, held with healthcare simultaneously in Lagos and five associations and other Nigerian cities of Ibadan, providing innovative Benin, Enugu, Kano and Abuja, treatment and Pharm. Folake Odediran, general prophylaxis options. manager and country chair, Also speaking at Nigeria-Ghana, Sanofi, thanked the Lagos launch, Prof. the distinguished experts at the Omolade Augustine event, noting that having related Awodu, a professor Pharm. Folake Odediran, general manager and country chair, Sanofi with them for years she knew that of haematology at the Nigeria-Ghana (middle) flanked by some dignitaries during the launch their dedication for the health School of Medicine, in Lagos. industry was because of their love University of Benin, more effective in preventing deaths University College Hospital, for Nigerians and Nigeria. who presented a paper on the “Overview of VTE in Nigeria”, said from VTE. Ibadan. She stated further that the Speakers at the Sanofi launch Other speakers and faculty launch of the new doses of that the while the burden of the condition is huge there are things were Prof. Rose Anorlu, a professor members at the launch were Dr Clexane by Sanofi was in support of obstetrics and gynaecology from Tamunomieibi Wakama, senior of what the clinicians were doing, that can be done to tame it. While noting that VTE is a global University of Lagos; Dr Olusegun lecturer at the department of disclosing that research done had Isaac Alatishe, professor of surgery haematology, Faculty of Basic shown that the new 20mg, 60mg health challenge, Prof. Awodu stated that acutely ill medical at the Faculty of Clinical Sciences, Sciences, College of Health and 80mg would be of great help College of Health Sciences, Sciences, University od Abuja; to the clinicians in the prevention patients were the most vulnerable, adding that the condition was the Obafemi Awolowo University; Dr Theresa Nwagha, a consultant and treatment of thrombosis. rd Prof Mahmoid Sani, a cardiologist haematologist in Department of Pharm. Odediran noted that 3 most common cause of clots related deaths. with the department of medicine, Haematologist and Immunology, VTE had huge socioeconomic Bayero University/Aminu Kano UNTH, Enugu and Dr Attah burden as patients of the condition The honorary consultant haematologist sated further that Teaching Hospital; Dr Abiodun Raphael Avidime senior lecturer, would need more days in the Moshood Adeoye, a cardiologist Reproductive Endocrinology Unit, hospital, resulting in extra treatment death from VTE were preventable, stressing that prophylaxis was far and epidemiologist at the College Bayero University/Aminu Kano costs and reduction in hospital bed of Medicine, University of Ibadan/ Teaching Hospital, Kano.
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Pharmanews October 2018 Vol. 40 No. 10
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Pharmanews App now available on Google Play store, Apple Store, Windows Store 70 }News } Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 ACPN-Lagos flays FG’s legislation on counterfeit medicines By Adebayo Oladejo he Association of Community Pharmacists Tof Nigeria (ACPN), Lagos State Chapter, has blamed inappropriate and weak legislation, as well as the federal government’s reluctance to implement strict policies on pharmacy matters, as the major factor encouraging the influx and proliferation of counterfeit medicines in the country. Speaking during the commemoration of this year’s “World Pharmacists Day”, which had the theme, “Safe and Effective Medicines for All” and held at Anthony Sport Complex and Youth Centre, Kosofe Local Government Area, Lagos, the Chairman, ACPN, Lagos chapter, Pharm. Olabanji Benedict Obideyi, lamented that pharmacists in the country had not been getting the required support through appropriate legislation to be at the helm of affairs on matters relating to medicines. According to Obideyi, who was represented by the L-R, Pharm. (Mrs) Olabisi Oyeleye, keynote speaker; Hon. Babs Afolabi Sofola, chairman, association’s vice chairman, Kosofe LGA, and other honourables that accompanied the chairman at the event. Pharm. Lawrence Ekhator, due to weak legislation on pharmacy According to her, this therapeutic failure, worsened malaria, hypertension, and matters, illegal premises year’s World Pharmacists conditions and sometimes other disease conditions are daily being opened and Day theme was aimed to death. offered to the people of operated by charlatans, whose promote pharmacists’ role in In his speech at the event, Anthony, Maryland, community only motivation for venturing safeguarding patients’ safety the executive Chairman, Kosofe and its environs. into the drug business is to through improving medication Local Government, Hon. Babs Dignitaries at the make profit at the expense of use and reducing medication Afolabi Sofola, commended event included Mazi. Sam the citizens’ wellbeing. error, adding that pharmacists the ACPN for organising the Ohuabunwa, president, PSN, “In these illegal outlets, are trained to ensure access sensitisation programme in who was represented by Pharm. expired drugs are relabeled for to medicines and their the community, as well as for Bolanle Adeniran, chairman, sale to unsuspecting members appropriate use, improve offering free health screening PSN, Lagos State; Pharm. Samuel of the public, while some adherence, coordinate care and counselling to the Adekola, national chairman, other medicines are being transitions, and so much more, populace, noting that the efforts ACPN, who was represented falsified at alarming rates. The as against the evil intention of had enlightened more people by Pharm. (Mrs) Omokhafe regulatory authorities seem to the charlatans. on the proper channel to seek Ashore, national financial be handicapped in this regard, “The charlatans we are safe and effective medication. secretary, ACPN; Pharm. Ismail majorly due to inadequate talking about don’t have the Speaking further, the elated Aminu, former chairman, ACPN, infrastructures to carry out education in medicine and Sofola advised the people of Lagos State; Pharm. (Mrs) Biola their jobs. However, if our we know that medicines his community that when in Paul-Ozieh, immediate past medicine must be safe and can be quite dangerous as need of healthcare assistance, chairman, ACPN, Lagos; Hon efficacious, government would they have benefits and they they should not hesitate Ola Odunfa, supervisor for need to build the capacity of have side effects which can to approach any nearby chieftaincy, Kosofe LGA; Hon the concerned agencies by sometimes also cause other registered pharmacy for Oyetayo Oyeyemi, supervisor providing necessary tools to diseases and even death. Only ultimate preservation of their for Agric, Social, Youth and work,” he advised. the pharmacist is actually health. Sport; Hon. Idowu Olowo, Obideyi further urged trained to be able to advise The highpoint of the councilor, Anthony Ward; Hon Nigerians to be careful of where patients on the proper use of event was the free counselling Diekola Lawal, special adviser they buy their medicines, drugs,” she said. and screening on Hepatitis B, on media to the chairman, and stressing that they must avoid On his part, Chairman of blood sugar, blood pressure, many others. getting carried away by the Lagos State chapter of the perceived lower prices offered Association of General and by counterfeiters. Private Medical Practitioners Sanwo-Olu urges nurses Also, while speaking with of Nigeria, Dr Tunji Akintade, pressmen, the keynote speaker, stated that the pharmacist’s to embrace eHealth in Pharm. (Mrs) Olabisi Oyeleye, role in general has evolved into managing director and chief that of a healthcare practitioner achieving SDGs executive officer, Pharma who advises patients and continued from page 52 Solution Limited, emphasised healthcare providers on the the needed care without the shame theme of the conference: “No health of stigmatisation”, she stated. that pharmacists are the only selection, dosages, interactions without mental health: Exploring Lateef–Yusuf, while healthcare professionals and side effects of medicines. tools for the true PHC integration”, appreciating the state government uniquely trained in all matters Akintade emphasised the became imperative due to the for the approval of nurses’ uniform relating to drugs. need to educate the common increasing rate of suicide as a lot of allowance, which she said had man who patronises fake people who suffer from depression not been paid in the last 15 years, Warning on the dangers in rarely get treated because of the pleaded with the governor to patronising quacks, Oyeleye medicine peddlers in the stigma associated with visiting a look into the plight of retirees, stated that the role of the communities on the effects of psychiatric hospital. who she said were yet to get their pharmacists in ensuring that using poor quality, ineffective “The time has come to explore emoluments three years after their and harmful medicines, adding tools for true PHC integration in retirement. She also urged him to citizens are exposed to safe the management of mental illness. consider implementing the newly medicines in the community that the use of such counterfeit This will offer sufferers of mental approved minimum wage. cannot be over-emphasised. medications can result in illness the opportunity to receive
Celebrating 40 Years of Uninterrupted Monthly Publication (1979-2019) years Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 71
Pharmanews App now available on Google Play store, Apple Store, Windows Store 72 }News } Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 Adelusi-Adeluyi, Ohuabunwa, Femi- Oyewo, others salute Popoola at 60 n a show of solidarity, several By Adebayo Folorunsho-Francis pharmacists, clergymen, Ipoliticians, top government officials, friends and families turned up for the 60th birthday thanksgiving of Pharm. Adesanmi Popoola, managing director, Reals Pharmaceuticals Limited. The glitzy ceremony which took place at Classique Events Place, Oregun, Lagos, on 10 October, 2019, was a spectacle to behold. Flanked by Chief Fola Popoola, his wife, and their four beautiful children (Damilola, Sanmi, Ibukun and Ife), the former chairman, PSN Board of Fellows was the cynosure of all eyes. Applauding Popoola’s virtues, Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi, chairman of the occasion, remarked that the celebrant was in every way a pride of Pharmacy. “We have just witnessed 60 but I see him going beyond 80 years due to two reasons. First, it is in his DNA, and secondly, he studied one of the world’s loveliest professions – Pharmacy,” he said. Nodding in approval, Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, president, John Nwaiwu, managing director, JB Pharmaceuticals; Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, president, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN); Pharm. Adesanmi Popoola, celebrant; Sir Ifeanyi (PSN) further noted that Popoola Atueyi, managing director, Pharmanews Limited; Prof. Mbang Femi-Oyewo, chairman, PSN had been exemplary in all he had Board of Fellows; Pharm. Rosemary Nikoro, secretary, PSN Board of Fellows and Pharm. Jimi done. Agbaje, former Lagos gubernatorial candidate, at the ceremony. “He is one of those who have made the profession proud,” he stressed. Speaking on behalf of PSN Board of Fellows (BOF), Prof. Mbang Femi-Oyewo, chairman of the board, expressed the Board’s gratitude for the enormous contributions and support the celebrant had rendered in strengthening the body. “As the saying goes, the beauty of life does not depend on how happy you are but how happy others can be because of you. Fellow Ade, you strode 60 years on earth offering service to humanity and serving the Lord with all your might,” Femi-Oyewo declared. Several other personalities in the Reals Pharma boss’ circle of friends seem to concur with the assertion of the BOF chairman. Top on the list was Dr Lolu Ojo, former chairman, Association of Industrial Pharmacists of Nigeria (NAIP), who said he had known the celebrant as “a gentleman Popoola (middle) flanked by his wife and children. Pharmacist” since 1988. School Netherlands; Pharm. “We were working with our days of sitting on opposite said. Rosemary Nikoro, secretary, PSN Roche Nigeria Limited as Medical ends of the table in my office The celebrant, Ade Popoola, Board of Fellows; Pharm. Ahmed Representatives. He was highly strategising about the future. is a 1983 graduate of Pharmacy Yakasai, immediate past president resourceful and dedicated to the “Well, the future is here. We with an MBA from Lagos of PSN (represented by Pharm. company and his colleagues. His are both excelling in our chosen State University (LASU). He Sesan Kareem); Pastor Erastus life revolves round three major industry as we had dreamt. He is started his career as a medical Akingbola, former managing things - church (God), work and the only one allowed to call my representative with Roche director of Intercontinental Bank the profession (philanthropy). wife – Biodun - ‘my dear’. I pray Nigeria Limited, where he rose (now defunct) and Sir Ifeanyi “He has excelled at all levels for God to keep him in good through the ranks to the position Atueyi, managing director, and has become a reference health, sustain his family and of pharma operations manager Pharmanews Limited. point for others. In Ade, we find grant his unmet desires,” he said. with the local agent of ICI/Zeneca Others were Chief the fulfillment of King Solomon’s In the same vein, Barr. (Jagal Pharma Limited) before Adebayo Adelabu, former writing: ‘Seeth a man so diligent Steve Okoronkwo, managing leaving in 1995 to set up Reals gubernatorial aspirant in Oyo in his work, he will stand before director, Al-Tinez/Centaur/ Pharmaceuticals Limited. State; Pharm Chris Ojeabulu, kings and not before ordinary Xcel Pharmaceuticals disclosed He is a member of several managing director, Oak-Faith men,” he emphasised. that as an older colleague in professional bodies, as well Pharmaceuticals Limited; John Another friend of the the profession, the Reals boss is as being a past executive of Nwaiwu, managing director, JB celebrant, Femi Soremekun, humility-personified. Pharmaceutical Society of Pharma; Dr Polycarp Emenike, managing director, Biofem Nigeria (PSN) and Nigerian managing director, Neros Pharmaceuticals explained, that “He has done well for himself, Representatives of Overseas Pharmaceuticals; Pharm. Martins they had been friends since 1992 especially in the Board of Fellows. Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Igbonacho, chairman, Al-Tinez/ when Popoola was still working at He is somebody many of us look (NIROPHARM). Centaur/Xcel Pharmaceuticals; Jagal. up to in the industry. I remember Dignitaries in attendance at Pharm. Chukwuemeka Obi, “We became closer when when I invited him for my book the birthday celebration included: managing director, PharmacyPlus he was transiting between Jagal launch. He promised to turn up Pharm. Jimi Agbaje, former Lagos Limited; and Dr Obiorah and the establishment of Reals for the event and he came. I wish gubernatorial candidate; Prof. Chukwuka, chairman, Greenlife Pharma. I cast my mind back to him many more years ahead,” he Lere Baale, director, Business Pharmaceuticals. Celebrating 40 Years of Uninterrupted Monthly Publication (1979-2019) years Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No.11 73
Pharmanews App now available on Google Play store, Apple Store, Windows Store } 74 }NAPPSA Communique Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 The Communique of the 2019 conference of the Nigerian Association of Pharmacists and Pharmaceutical Scientists in the Americas (NAPPSA), Inc. he 13th Annual Scientific Atlanta and the local organizing committee, of Benin, 4) The Role of Pharmacists in Registrar, MDCN, Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, Conference and Exposition chaired by Dr. Nneka Odenigbo, exceeded Training Future Pharmacists: The Preceptor PSN President, Dr. Francis Adedayo Tof the Nigerian Association of expectations. Because of Dr. Emelia Training Manual by Dr. Ucheoma Nwizu, Faduyile, NMA President, Margaret Pharmacists and Pharmaceutical Orubeles tireless efforts, the conference Neighborhood Health Center, Portland, Okodua-Ajibola, NANNNA President and Scientists in the Americas was graced by written welcome addresses Oregon; 5) US Perspective on Post- Elizabeth Ekanem, NNCA-UK. (NAPPSA) was held in Atlanta, by the Georgia State Governor, Brian Graduate Clinical Pharmacy Training by Dr. Georgia, USA on September 12-15, Kemp, and the Mayor of Atlanta, Keisha Teresa Pounds, Clinical Pharmacy Manager The conference program concluded 2019. The conference theme was Lance Bottoms, as well as the attendance and Pharmacy Residency Program Director, with an Infectious Diseases Update Pharmaceutical and Therapeutic of renowned dignitaries including Georgia Wellstar Atlanta Medical Center; Clinical session featuring presentations on HIV Innovations: New Paradigm, New State Senator Donzella James, the Hon. Assistant Dean for South University School and Co-infections by Dr. Zandraetta Tims- Products, Better Medicines. Andrew Young, diplomat and civil rights of Pharmacy, Atlanta, GA, and 6) Current Cook, HIV/AIDS Pharmacotherapy by Dr. activist, and the Nigerian Consul-General Status of Post-Graduate Clinical Pharmacy Pamela Moye-Dickerson, and Multi-drug The conference drew participants in Atlanta, Hon. Aishatu Aliyu Musa who Training in Nigeria by Dr. Azuka C. Oparah, Resistance in Infectious Diseases by Dr. from North America, Europe and Africa delivered the welcome address. WAPCP. The presentations were followed Jessica Njoku-Kesene. and included professors from schools by a moderated discussion featuring the of pharmacy in the US and Nigeria, The conference opening remarks by speakers as well as Noel N. Wannang, The presentations were cutting pharmacists, pharmaceutical scientists, NAPPSA President, Dr. Leo Egbujiobi was Secretary General, WAPCP. edge and highlighted the excellence physicians and nurses. Government followed by a welcome message by PSN and accomplishments of pharmacists, institutions and professional organizations President, Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa. Keynote The conference theme was thoroughly pharmaceutical scientists and other represented included the Nigerian Federal presentations have been the highlights of discussed on the second day of the health care practitioners in Nigeria and Ministry of Health (FMoH), Pharmacists past NAPPSA conferences and this year conference with presentations on Innovation the diaspora. Leveraging the expertise Council of Nigeria (PCN), Pharmaceutical was no different. There were two keynote Initiatives by Dr. Nkere Ebube on behalf showcased by the presentations in Society of Nigeria (PSN), National Agency presentations: (1) Entrepreneurship and of NIPRD, Disruptive Innovation and The combination with outside-the-box thinking for Food and Drug Administration and Pharmaceutical Innovation: Connecting the Challenges of Regulation by Dr. Monica by key stakeholders will facilitate the desired Control (NAFDAC), US Food and Drug Dots by Dr. Wale Sulaiman, Chairman for Eimunjeze, NAFDAC, and Emerging innovations in the Nigerian pharmaceutical Administration (FDA), Texas Pharmacy the Neurosurgery Department & Back and Therapeutics for Addressing Cardiac sector and healthcare delivery system. Association (TPA), National Universities Spine Center, Ochsner Health Systems, Amyloidosis by Dr. Marisol S. Temech, Commission (NUC), National Institute for New Orleans, LA and Chairman/CEO, RNZ Eidos Therapeutics, San Francisco, CA. The conference featured transitioning Pharmaceutical Research & Development Global, Lagos Nigeria and (2) Innovation of the NAPPSA Presidency from Dr. Leo (NIPRD), Nigerians in Diaspora in the Nigerian Pharmaceutical Sector: The Pharmacy Professional Practice Egbujiobi to Dr. Anthony Ikeme as well as the Commission (NIDCOM), Association Current Status, Future Needs by Mazi Sam session featured presentations on Advocacy election of Dr. Teresa Pounds as President of Nigerian Physicians in the Americas Ohuabunwa, PSN President by Debbie Garza, RPh.; Key Performance Elect. Ten new board members were (ANPA), National Association of Nigerian Metrics: Meeting Your Business Goals elected to take the positions being vacated Nurses in North America (NANNNA), The first session of the conference by Kunle Tometi, BPharm, RPh, Opioid by those board members transitioning off Nigerian Nurses Charitable Association-UK focused on Pharmacy Education, with the Overdose Response and Naloxone Training the NAPPSA board. The new memberships (NNCA-UK), Nigerian Medical Association theme Advancement of Clinical Pharmacy by Dr. Nina Mezu-Nwaba, US FDA; NAPPSA of the of NAPPSA Executive Committee (NMA), Medical and Dental Council of in Nigeria. The plenary presentations Business to Business Group: Working and and Board of Trustees are listed below: Nigeria (MDCN) and the West African included 1) Harvesting the Fruits of PharmD Growing Together by Dr. Anthony C. Ikeme, Post-Graduate College of Pharmacists Education for Residency Training and and Dividends of Partnership: The ACPN Executive Board (WAPCP). Patient-Centered Pharmaceutical Care by and NAPPSA Experience by Sam Adekola, Anthony Ikeme, President PCN Registrar, Pharm NAE Mohammed, 2) RPh. Teresa Pounds, President Elect The sessions included more than 20 Instituting a Conventional PharmD Program Leo Egbujiobi, Immediate Past scheduled presentations and roundtable in Nigerian Universities: A Fundamentals A roundtable discussion on the President discussions as well as 12 scientific poster Score Card Review by Prof. Augustine Challenges and Opportunities of Healthcare Emma Omehe, Treasurer presentations. The number of conferees Okhamafe, Faculty of Pharmacy, University Delivery in Nigeria featured Dr. E. Osagie Aloysius Ibe, Secretary and exhibitors was higher than for previous of Benin, 3) Review of the Special PharmD Ehanire, Honorable Federal Minister of NAPPSA conferences and participants Curriculum: Content Updates for Furthering Health, Nigeria, Dr. Wale Sulaiman, Hon. Continuing Trustees earned over 15 pharmacy continuing Pharmacy Education Towards Patient- Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Executive Chairman, John Anozie, Nneka Cos-Okpalla education (CE) credit hours. This was the Centered Pharmaceutical Care, Prof. Patrick NIDCOM, Emily Olalere, PCN Director, Nkiru Mbionwu, Uche Ndefo, Patrick second NAPPSA conference hosted by Erah, Faculty of Pharmacy, University T.A.B Sanusi, BDS, M.Bioethics, LLM, continued on page 77
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Celebrating 40 Years of Uninterrupted Monthly Publication (1979-2019) years Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 77 to God for His help to Pharmanews Pharmanews celebrates 40th anniversary, 80th and enabling the company to publish the Pharmanews journal birthday of Atueyi in grand style monthly without interruption for continued from backpage 40 years and for sparing his life to carry out the vision of the company. Atueyi said that the story of his life and that of Pharmanews were interwoven, noting that it was difficult to tell one without the other. He added that one obvious thing however was that, by divine guidance, the journey of his life and that of Pharmanews had been aided by some individuals, groups, pharmaceutical companies and organisations, noting that God used some people to help his life and business. He further described his autobiography, “My Life and Pharmanews” as a valuable treasure everyone should have and read, urging those at the occasion to get copies for themselves and also buy as gifts for their loved ones. He stated further that when Pharmanews started 40 years ago, some very good friends and associates who supported his vision and offered useful suggestions, included his mentor, Adelusi- Adeluyi, who, he said, helped to L-R: Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi, chairman of the occasion; Pharm. (Sir) Ifeanyi Atueyi, guide and midwife the vision of founder and MD, Pharmanews Limited; Lady Joan Atueyi and Sir Tony Ezenna, chairman/ Pharmanews. CEO, Orange Drugs Group during the event. The 50 pharmaceutical companies presented with awards at the occasion were Afrab-Chem. Dignitaries at the colourful Business School, Netherlands; of Neimeth International Ltd; Ajanta Pharmaceuticals ceremony included Pharm. (Mazi) Pharm. Jimi Agbaje, managing Pharmaceuticals Plc.; Dr John Ltd; Alpha Pharmacy and Sam Ohuabunwa, PSN president; director, JK Pharmacy; and His Nwaiwu of JB Pharmaceuticals; Stores Ltd; Al-TinezPharma Dr Stella Okoli, C.E.O, Emzor Royal Highness, Igwe of Okija Mr Femi Soremekun of Biofem Ltd; Biofem Pharmaceuticals Pharmaceutical; Prof. Fola Tayo, Town. Pharmaceuticals among others. (Nig.) Ltd; Biomedical Ltd; Bolar pro-chancellor and chairman, There were also many Others in attendance included Pharmaceuticals Ltd; Bond Governing Council of Caleb managing directors of leaders of Full Gospel Business Chemical Industries Ltd; Dana University, Imota, Lagos; Prof. pharmaceutical companies among Men Fellowship International, Pharmaceuticals Ltd; Dortemag Mbang Femi-Oyewo, chairman, whom were Pharm. (Sir) Nnamdi members of Great Ife Pharmacy Ventures Limited; Drugfield PSN Board of Fellows; Chief Obi of Embassy Pharm. & Chem. Alumni Association, Old Boys Pharmaceuticals Ltd; Elbe Pharma Bunmi Olaopa, president, Great Ltd; Chief Emmanuel Umenwa Association of Dennis Memorial Ltd; Embassy Pharmaceuticals Ife Pharmacy Alumni Association of Geneith Pharmaceuticals; Grammar School, Anglican priests, & Chemicals Ltd; Emzor (GIPAA); Sir Tony Ezenna, Dr Poly Emenike of Neros relatives of Atueyi, and pharmacists Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd; chairman, Orange Drugs Group; Pharmaceuticals; Pharm. (Chief) M. from the various arms of the PSN. Expharlab Limited . Mr H. A. Arora, managing director, O. Paul of Mopson Pharmaceuticals; Speaking at the occasion, Others were Euromed Ltd; Rambaxy Nigeria Limited a Sun Pharm. Ade Popoola of Reals Atueyi said he could not fully Fidson Healthcare Plc; Geneith company; Pharm. Lere Baale of Group; Pharm. Matthew Azoji express how fully grateful he was Pharmaceuticals Ltd; Goldmoore International Ltd; Greenlife Pharmaceuticals Ltd; HealthPlus 2019 Conference Communique Continued Limited; Jawa International Ltd; JB continued from page 74 Pharmaceuticals Ltd; Juhel Nigeria Ihekoronye of Texas Southern University including development of preceptors, Ltd; Mark Pharmaceuticals Ltd; Nwakama, Vern Ohaya, Kate Okpukpara and Ms. Oluwafemi Owoseni, Howard practice sites and clinical pharmacy May & Baker Nig. Plc; Maydon Emelia Orubele, University, respectively. At the gala banquet, residency programs. Pharmaceuticals & Chemicals Ltd; the outgoing president, Dr. Egbujiobi, NAPPSA will leverage its expertise Medreich Nigeria Limited; Mega New Trustees presented NAPPSA Difference Maker and other resources to ensure that the Lifesciences Nigeria Ltd; Micro Adolphus Akaniru, Okezie Aruoma awards to the Late Prof. Dora Akunyili, PharmD curriculum development and Nnodum Iheme, R.Ph., Dr. Echeazu Ogu, implementation in Nigeria is abreast of best Nova Pharmaceuticals; Mopson Edna Chima, Emeka Chinaka Pharmaceutical Limited; Neimeth Angela Kanu, Gerald Mufuro Dr. Patrick Nwakama, Dr. Funmi Ajayi, Dr. global practices in clinical pharmacy. Gbenga Olajide, Nonye Onyewuenyi Nkere Ebube, Emmanuel Ezirim, R.Ph., NAPPSA is especially proud of its role in International Pharm. Ltd; Neros Queen Ozigboh, Anayo Ukeje Dr. Teresa Pounds, Prof. Sunny Ohia, Dr. forging links among professional healthcare Pharmaceuticals Ltd; Orange Drugs Ahmed Yakasai, Henrietta Ukwu, Dr Omobolanle Olowu, and organizations, government agencies and the Ltd; Pemason Pharmaceuticals Emmanuel Omehe, R.Ph. The incoming academic community aimed at modernizing Ltd;Phamatex Nigeria Ltd; Outgoing Trustees President, Dr Ikeme also presented a the status and practice of Pharmacists Pharma Ethics Ltd; PharmacyPlus Olu Aloba, Olugbade Bolanle Distinguished Service award to Dr Leo and Pharmaceutical Scientists and their Ltd; Phillips Pharmaceuticals Fadeke Jafojo, Ahmed Mora Egbujiobi contributions to innovations in health care (Nigeria) Ltd; Pinnacle Health Dan Nsofor, Emma Omehe delivery in Nigeria. Pharmaceutical Ltd; Ranbaxy Femi Omodara, Edward Oparaoji The gala banquet ended with an NAPPSA will partner with key Nigeria Limited – A SUN PHARMA Teresa Pounds, Kunle Tometi Inaugural Address by the incoming governmental, professional, business Company; Reals Pharmaceuticals President, Dr Anthony Ikeme in which and NGO stakeholders on innovative Ltd; Sagar Vitaceuticals Nigeria The NAPPSA membership sincerely he rallied NAPPSA members to the 6 technologies, infrastructure improvements, cardinal goals of his presidency, namely: regulatory compliance and scientific Limited; Shalina Healthcare Nigeria thanks the outgoing board members for Ltd; Swiss Pharma Nigeria Ltd; their service and dedication and warmly 1) Increase the membership population and expertise to facilitate solutions to the health welcomes the new NAPPSA trustees. participation of more members in NAPPSA and pharmaceutical care needs of the Therapeutics Laboratories Nigeria Further highlighting NAPPSAs partnering leadership; 2) Increase NAPPSAs visibility Nigerian populace. Ltd; Unique Pharmaceuticals Ltd; initiative, a board membership reciprocation through investment in publications such NAPPSA commits to its key mission of Vitabiotics (Nigeria) Limited; Vixa arrangement was initiated with PSN. As as Newsletters and a NAPPSA Journal; being a forum for interaction among Nigerian Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd; and World part of the arrangement, Ahmed Yakasai 3) More effective utilization of social Pharmacists, Pharmaceutical Scientists and Wide Commercial Ventures Ltd. (PSN) was named to the NAPPSA board media to give the organization a voice; 4) other healthcare professionals to improve The management of of trustees while Kunle Tometi becomes a Sustenance of our existing partnerships and research and development of drugs, Pharmanews also seized the PSN board member. forging more partnerships with like-minded education and practice of pharmaceutical opportunity of the occasion to organizations to maximize NAPPSAs care in Nigeria, Africa and the rest of the wo present long-service awards to A special feature of the program was positive impact; 5) Create an endowment rld. six staff of the company, who had induction of the following NAPPSA Fellows for sustainable funding of the NAPPSA spent a minimum of ten years with (FNAPPSA): Prof. Adeboye Adejare, Late Scholarships and Grants; and 6) Create an effective mentorship system that guides Anthony Ikeme, PhD the organisation. Staff members Dr. Imo Ibia, Emmanuel Omehe, RPh, Dr. presented with long service Teresa Pounds, and Adekunle Tometi, NAPPSAs young professionals to excel in President RPh. They join the inaugural group of 14 their respective professional tracks. NAPPSA awards at the occasion were: NAPPSA fellows who were inducted at Yusuff Moshood, editor; Elizabeth the 2017 NAPPSA conference. This years DECLARATIONS Leo Egbujiobi, RPh, MD Amuneke, administrative manager; NAPPSA Scholarships for Excellence in NAPPSA will continue to partner with Immediate Past President Temitope Obayendo, online editor; Pharmacy Education, sponsored by Auburn key stakeholders to further the adoption and NAPPSA Adebayo Folorunsho-Francis, Pharmaceuticals and Egbujiobi Family actualization of the PharmD curriculum in senior correspondent; Andy Foundation, were awarded to Ms. Chinwe Nigerian universities and in clinical practice, Benson-Idima, graphic artist; and Chinedu Udeanyim, accountant. Pharmanews App now available on Google Play store, Apple Store, Windows Store } 78 }News Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 Experts list dangers of unsafe cosmetics, seek better regulation orried by the proliferation of unsafe cosmetics, which has By Temitope Obayendo W led to increasing incidence of terminal diseases like cancer, hypertension, diabetes, organ system toxicity and endocrine disruption, medical experts have called for stiffer regulation of cosmetics to reduce exposure to chemicals capable of destroying the human system. The healthcare practitioners, who highlighted the dangerous chemicals to watch out for in any cosmetic product or other personal care effects, asserted that everyone must be on the alert as the unsafe chemicals are used in the production of various beauty products like creams, soaps, powders, perfumes and Director General, NIMR, Prof. Babatunde Salako (third from right); Dr Chidinma Gab-Okafor, a toothpastes, in unregulated public health practitioner, from the department of Biochemistry and Nutrition, NIMR; and other measures. dignitaries in a group photograph at the public lecture. They called on relevant regulatory agencies to come up with legislations against the unscrupulous practice of exposing unsuspecting consumers to deadly chemicals through the use of unsafe substances in the production of cosmetics and personal care products. Delivering a special public lecture titled: “The overview of the impact of chemical exposures from cosmetics and personal care products”, Dr Chidinma Gab-Okafor, a public health practitioner, from the department of Biochemistry and Nutrition, NIMR, called the attention of the audience to the inherent dangers in the use of cosmetics without the knowledge of the ingredients they are made of. The public health practitioner, who particularly expressed concerns for infants and unborn babies, who are victims of their mothers’ ignorance, in exposing them through the use of unverified products, urged mothers and all women to always read the labels on their infant products before purchasing them. She also faulted the existing legislations on cosmetics provided by regulatory bodies in the country, stating that they do not require manufacturers to disclose, for instance, public safety of fragrance ingredients, which she said is contrary to what obtains in developed countries like the United States. While cautioning participants to beware even of the amount of fragrance they inhale from products, she said “fragrance can contain dozens, even hundreds of chemicals as fragrance manufacturers claim that the specific chemical used to create their scents are confidential business information or “trade secrets”, a concept originally codified in the 1996 Federal Fair Packaging and Labelling Act”. She listed some chemicals Nigerians should avoid in their cosmetics to include: benzoyl peroxide, DEA MEA TEA, dioxin, DMDM hydatoin & urea, FD&C colour & pigment, paraben, peo, phlhalates, propylene glycol continued on page 84 Celebrating 40 Years of Uninterrupted Monthly Publication (1979-2019) years Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 79
Pharmanews App now available on Google Play store, Apple Store, Windows Store 80 }News } Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 Drug addiction: Nigeria sitting on keg of gunpowder, experts warn - As IMAN-GHI organises workshop on menace By Adebayo Oladejo minent medical youths. the topic, “Family as Core practitioners, including Speaking at a workshop Addiction Prevention Entity in EDr A. B. Awesu, on “Addiction Prevention”, Society”, noted that parents are consultant psychiatrist, organised by the Islamic the strongest influence and role Federal Neuropsychiatric Medical Association of Nigeria models that children have in the Hospital, Yaba, Lagos; Dr (IMAN), Lagos State Chapter, society, adding that while there Tajudeen Abiola, consultant in collaboration with Nigerian is no guarantee that a child psychiatrist, Neuropsychiatric Green Crescent Health would not become an addict, Hospital, Kaduna; Dr Ibrahim Development Initiative (GHI), addiction is much less likely to Oreagba, associate professor at the CIPM Conference Hall, happen if the parents provide of Pharmacology, Therapeutics Alausa Ikeja, Lagos, recently, guidance and clear rules, spend and Toxicology, University of one of the guest speakers, time with the child and ensure Lagos; and Dr Hafsat Adeshina, Dr Oreagba, who described they lay a good example. a public health practitioner and addiction as a national disaster Speaking further, Oreagba, pharmacist, have warned that that needs a decisive action, said a member of the GHI, and trouble looms for the country, it is an act of surrendering or national vice president, IMAN, if nothing is done to stem the enslaving oneself to something, listed factors that predispose scourge of drug and behavioural Dr. Ibrahim Oreagba, such as drug or any activity. youths to addiction, especially delivering his speech. addiction, especially among the Oreagba, who spoke on drug addiction, to include: peer pressure, curiosity, ignorance, academic-induced frustration, lack of parental care, indiscipline, lack of significant relationship with caring adult, lack of mutual attachment and nurture by parents and caregivers, among many others. In his words, “Parents are the key role models in a family that everybody looks up to. You cannot tell a child not to drink, smoke or tell lies when parents do it; therefore, addiction prevention starts from the family, as one family in conjunction with other families, makes a society.” Speaking in the same vein, Dr Tajudeen Abiola and Dr (Mrs) Hafsat Adeshina noted that the issue of drug addiction, especially family centered addiction, has reached an alarming level in the country. According to the duo, many people suffering from drug addiction don’t recognise it as a major health challenge, adding that while some attribute their conditions to witchcraft attacks and thus opt to visit spiritual authorities rather than medical ones, others turn to more hard drugs rather than seeking expert guidance and counselling, which are often unaffordable. They warned that prompt measures must be taken by government and other concerned stakeholders to educate, guide, counsel and assist the populace in dealing with the spiraling menace before it becomes uncontrollable. Other dignitaries at the awareness campaign included: Dr Mustapha Alimi, chairman, IMAN, Lagos State Chapter, and chief medical director, National Orthopaedic Hospital, Igbobi, Lagos; Dr Ibrahim Olajide Opeewe, consultant psychiatrist, Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta, and director, AL-HILAAL Hospital, Abeokuta, Ogun State; Dr Habeeb Musa Muhammad; Mrs Shekinat Abdulfatai, financial secretary, IMAN, Lagos State; and Pharm. Afusat Adeshina. Celebrating 40 Years of Uninterrupted Monthly Publication (1979-2019) years Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 81
Pharmanews App now available on Google Play store, Apple Store, Windows Store 82 }News } Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 to celebrate the pharmacist; they just see him as one that dispenses Improve access to safe medicines for drugs. But beyond that, we are the custodians of drugs, manufacturers all, PSN urges FG of drugs and distributors of drugs. We undertake the processing from continued from back page manufacturing till the patient gets Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) the drug. That is our profession, and celebrated on 25 September. and we also ensure safe handling, As part of activities for this safe delivery and safe taking of the year’s event in Lagos, the PSN drug”, he noted. World Pharmacists Day Committee Asked about the popularity of in collaboration with May & pharmacists among the healthcare Baker Nigeria Plc organised a team, he said the public is getting sensitisation walk, from the Lagos increasingly aware of the role of University Teaching Hospital the pharmacist, adding that while (LUTH)’s main gate to Ojuelegba pharmacists had often done little roundabout, displaying different to make their roles known in the placards on the roles of pharmacists past, things were fast changing in the community. as pharmacists now constantly The awareness campaign, enlighten patients on their which involved pharmacists from obligations in the society. the different arms of the Society, also “We are not content with featured free medical screening staying behind the scene,” he for residents and passers-by at said, “because the pharmacist Ojuelegba roundabout. is equipped to do everything, Speaking on the theme of even clinical pharmacy, from the the event, “Safe and effective basic role of drug dispensing, medicines for all”, Lagos State PSN counselling, manufacturing.” chairman, Pharm. (Mrs) Bolanle Pharm. (Mrs) Bolanle Adeniran, Lagos State PSN chairman Pharm. Kingsley Okwunife, Adeniran, who represented the (3rd from left); Pharm. Daniel Egwu, chairman, PSN World vice-chairman, World Pharmacists PSN president, Pharm. (Mazi) Sam Pharmacists Day Committee (3rd from right); Pharm. Day Committee, emphasised on Ohuabunwa at the rally, stated Kingsley Okwunife, vice-chairman, PSN World Pharmacists the message PSN was passing to all that safe and effective medicines Day Committee (2nd from right); Pharm. Gbolagade Iyiola Nigerians, saying that pharmacists are indispensable for all, noting (right) and others during the campaign. wanted every patient to get the that just as it is impossible for best out of their medications. people to do without food, so also said. not PSN; but then, we collaborate His words: “As drug experts, we it is impossible for humans to do On the provision of drugs for in health outreaches by ensuring want all patients to get their drugs without quality drugs. the populace, Adeniran said it is not that our pharmaceutical companies with advice from pharmacists, She also urged patients to the obligation of the PSN to provide produce quality products. We are because if you get drugs without ensure that they get their medicines free medicines for the citizens, also pleading with the government pharmacists’ advice, there is no from authorised sources, to prevent noting that the Society is just like to reduce tariff on drug importation way the outcome of that patient will falling victims of fake drugs. any other professional association and raw materials, so that these improve “It is you the patient that should in the country. drugs will be produced cheap for “That is why we are telling ensure that you get safe and effective She further added that the PSN, the people”, she stated. patients not to take medications medicines at all cost. The ball is on its own, had been reaching out Also speaking at the event, without the advice of a pharmacist. in your court. Firstly, you should to people in so many ways almost the Chairman, World Pharmacists If you have any issue with your source your drugs from reputable on a weekly basis to alleviate their Day Committee, Pharm. Daniel medications, consult a pharmacist, outlets. Ensure you get your drugs sufferings. Egbu, stated that the day is about because safe and effective from a government hospital, a “The government should look celebrating the pharmacist, medicines for all is the paramount registered private hospital, or a at all ways to make sure that drugs bringing into the public domain concern of every pharmacist in registered community pharmacy. are available for the people at the what he does, what he emphasises Nigeria, and their goal is that every When you get there, ensure you cheapest price possible. So it is the and practices. Nigerian taking medication must talk to licensed professionals”, she responsibility of the government “A lot of people do not know how consult a pharmacist.”
Celebrating 40 Years of Uninterrupted Monthly Publication (1979-2019) years Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 83
Pharmanews App now available on Google Play store, Apple Store, Windows Store 84 }News } Pharmanews November 2019 Vol. 41 No. 11 Experts list dangers of unsafe cosmetics, seek continued from page 78 better regulation
&butylene glycol, sodium lauryl sulfate & sodium laureth sulfate, sunscreen chemical and tridosan. Fielding questions from journalists after the lecture, the Director General, NIMR, Prof. Babatunde Salako, noted that the essence of the lecture was to create awareness among the populace that most of the things they use, including cream, soap, toothpaste, perfume, powder, may contain unsafe substances, either as contaminants or as part of chemicals used in their preparations. He added that some of the chemicals can lead to cancers, kidney diseases and other ailments. “These are things that may Cross section of participants at the public lecture not occur at the early stage of using them. Over the years, there are cumulative effects. I believe the essence of the lecture is to reawaken the interest of regulatory agencies who are in charge of ensuring standards in the production of these items to ensure that these contaminants or chemicals that they use are either on the minimally acceptable level and where they should not be there at all, they are to ensure they are not there. “The other issue is to create awareness among researchers that there are public health issues they need to pay more attention to rather than running after highfalutin issues. More importantly, it is to see if they can come together to bring out safe materials they can use, such as natural products”, he stressed. Also speaking at the public lecture, a professor of Community Medicine and Public Health at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Bayo Onajole, noted that checkmating the unsafe cosmetics challenge requires a multidimensional approach, noting that the first is that users need to be aware of what they are using, while there is need to create more awareness in the media. Onajole, who is also the chairman, Faculty of Public Health, National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria, said government has the responsibility to regulate, monitor and evaluate, adding that one of the means of doing this is by conducting researches. “We can do end-product research, looking at people who have been exposed to this and see what health effects has occurred to them. This will enhance obtainment of evidences to warn others from engaging in such acts,” he said. He also urged regulatory agencies to scale up their monitoring activities of producers and manufacturers of some of the unsafe products. “It is not only about international cosmetics; even local cosmetics manufacturers are everywhere, putting one concoction or the other together and telling you that these are creams”, he stressed.
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Pharmanews celebrates 40th anniversary, 80th birthday of Atueyi in grand style By Yusuff Moshood he date, 1 October, 2019 will continue to be remembered Tfor years to come by friends and associates of Pharm. Sir Ifeanyi Atueyi and Pharmanews Limited as the company celebrated its 40th anniversary of uninterrupted publication of the journal, Pharmanews, and the 80th birthday of the publisher, Pharm. Sir Atueyi. There was also a launch of Atueyi’s autobiography, titled “My Life and Pharmanews”. The memorable four-in-one event was held at the main hall of the Sheba Event Centre, Mobolaji Bank Anthony, Ikeja, Lagos and chaired by Prince Julius Adelusi- Adeluyi, former minister of health and current president, Nigeria Academy of Pharmacy. Graced by eminent personalities from within and outside the pharmaceutical industry, the occasion was also used by Pharmanews Limited to appreciate a total of 50 pharmaceutical companies, who had been supportive to the Mr Dominique Jordan, president, International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP), receiving a copy company from inception. They of Pharmanews from Mr Yusuff Moshood, editor,Pharmanew, during the 2019 FIP World Congress of were presented with appreciation Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE) last September. awards. continued on page 77 Improve access to safe medicines for all, PSN urges FG - As Society celebrates World Pharmacists Day By Temitope Obayendo he Pharmaceutical Society for all would become easier of Nigeria (PSN) has called once the government prioritises on the federal government the healthcare of the citizenry, T beginning with adequate of Nigeria to increase access to budgetary allocation to health. safe medicines for all citizens, These and other remarks stressing that citizens’ welfare were made by the Society, while is a primary obligation of the commemorating 2019 World government. Pharmacists Day, an annual event The Society also maintained established by the International that availability of safe medicines continued on page 82
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