Today I read in The Manila Times (October 26, 2006 issue) an article entitled "Public told to report doctors insisting branded drugs."* After reading the article, I decided to write to the editor. This is what I wrote:
Dear Editor,
... I agree that "the skyrocketing cost of medicines in the country may be partly blamed on the continuing practice of some doctors of disregarding the generic drugs in favor of the branded ones that are usually endorsed to them by sales representatives of various pharmaceutical companies."
It should be noted, however, that PHARMACISTS ARE REQUIRED NOT TO FILL VIOLATIVE PRESCRIPTIONS (i.e., those written in brand names only) and that these "shall be kept and reported by the pharmacist or other interested parties to the nearest DOH office for appropriate action." (DOH Administrative Order No. 63 series of 1989). Failure of the dispensers and drug outlets to report violative prescriptions within three months after receipt of such prescriptions" is a violation of the said Administrative Order that may be sanctioned by "suspension, or revocation of the license to operate the drug outlet by the Secretary of Health" and that "professionals directly involved in the violations shall be recommended by the Secretary of Health for appropriate administrative sanctions by the PRC."
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