Drugs play a pivotal role in treatment of diseases, but its safe and appropriate use is even more crucial. The 55th National Pharmacy Week aims to educate people on this aspect, specifically the management of diabetes.
This year’s National Pharmacy Week, observed from November 20 to 26, lays stress on the role of pharmacists in a healthy nation, particularly their role in prevention and management of diabetes. It seeks to encourage pharmacists to play a vital role in promoting the safe use of drugs.
Mohammed Gani, associate professor of Pharmacology, Government Vellore Medical College Hospital, said it was important to create awareness of the safe use of drugs among public and healthcare providers.
“Management of diseases involves teamwork and pharmacists play a key role. Patients should be explained how drugs should be taken. For instance, insulin, when taken more than what is prescribed by mistake, can cause side effects such as hypoglycemia. So, pharmacists have to guide patients on how to take drugs safely,” he said.
The Pharmacy Services of Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore, organised an exhibition to highlight the safe and proper use of drugs.
The stalls had exhibits on drugs, their storage, safe use and directions for use.
The stalls also focused on special population such as geriatric, paediatric patients, pregnant women, patient counselling, and had on display pill dispensers, tablet cutters, nebulisers and glucometers.
The emphasis was on taking anti-diabetic drugs as per doctor’s prescription, to complete the prescribed course and keep away from self-medication.
The department was also conducting various events such as quiz, slogan writing, essay writing and post competition as part of the National Pharmacy Week. Karthikeyan, assistant director, Drugs Control Officer, Vellore zone, and J.V. Peter, head of Pharmacy Services, CMC, were present at the inaugural session.
