Pharmacy Board suspends, revokes licenses over patient safety concerns

The Pharmacy and Poisons Board has suspended and revoked the licenses of several pharmaceutical practitioners for professional misconduct,

This follows investigations by its Enquiries and Disciplinary Committee (EDC) chaired by Dr. Richard Muthoka.

One case involved Malibu Pharmacy, where a pharmacist authorised the delivery of medication with an external label revealing a complainant's details and diagnosis.

 "This was a breach of professional conduct," said Dr. Muthoka.

 The committee recommended a six-month suspension for Dr. Nancy Wangu Kaguri, the pharmacy’s superintendent.

In another case, pharmaceutical technologist Lovi Lovince Manono was found guilty of fraudulent activities. Manono had agreed with a non-professional to set up a pharmacy using his credentials, later transferring control to the unqualified individual.

"Manono's actions amounted to professional misconduct," the committee noted.

It revoked his licence and imposed a five-year suspension from pharmacy practice.

Dr Charles Mukabi Waweru, a pharmacist, was found to have failed to properly close a pharmacy in Matasia, Kajiado County.

He left the premises open without notifying the Board and without a registered pharmacist or technologist.

 "This put public health at risk," said the committee, which recommended a three-month suspension of his license.

In a separate case, Emmanuel Odhiambo Gwassi operated a pharmacy in an unregistered premise without a registered pharmacist or pharmaceutical technologist. His licence was revoked for five years.

"This conduct is highly irresponsible," the committee said.

Caroline Wachera, a pharmaceutical technologist, received an admonishment letter after failing to properly close a pharmacy.

However, the committee pardoned her, noting, "Wachera had relinquished her business partnership and made efforts to comply with regulations."

 The board reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the highest standards in the pharmaceutical profession to safeguard public health and maintain the profession's integrity.