Minister Tabuya raises alarm over opioid abuse in Fiji – FBC News

Minister of Women and Children’s Affairs Lynda Tabuya is calling for immediate intervention to curb the misuse of these potentially addictive substances

Fiji is facing a growing crisis following reports of pharmacies allegedly selling opioids without a prescription, prompting concern among health authorities.

These painkillers, traditionally dispensed by public hospitals for serious conditions, are believed to be distributed through unauthorized channels.

Minister of Women and Children’s Affairs Lynda Tabuya is calling for immediate intervention to curb the misuse of these potentially addictive substances.

Tabuya says the surge in opioid abuse has highlighted critical loopholes in the law.

It urges the Fiji Pharmaceutical Society to increase oversight of pharmacies and review policies that allow the dispensing of opioids without a prescription.

“This is a growing concern as there have been reports of pharmacies selling opioids without a prescription and, as we know, these are usually those dispensed by public hospitals and are intended to be used as painkillers.”

As the government continues its fight against illegal drugs like methamphetamine, Tabuya calls for equal attention to the opioid crisis.

“There is also diazepam, which is also a sleep aid, and currently pharmacies can dispense a certain number of emergency prescription drugs without a doctor’s consent. But I think this needs to be rethought because pharmacies also sell whole packages and they shouldn’t because the presence of these opioids really poses a health risk to our people.”

The Fiji Pharmaceutical Society has condemned the illegal practice and is encouraging pharmacies to raise their standards.

CEO Priyanka Prasad adds that pharmacies that decide to violate the law should be reported to the board.

“Pharmacies are aware that they are not allowed to sell these drugs without a prescription, because this is clearly defined. People who decide to violate the law should be reported to the management.”

Prasad says the society is organizing seminars and conferences to raise these issues, which leaves no excuse for claiming ignorance of the law.