The Tunisian National Agency for Medicines and Health Products (ANMPS) has launched a call for citizens and healthcare professionals to report any medical products suspected of being substandard or counterfeit. This initiative aims to contribute to the protection of public health. According to the ANMPS, substandard products are those that have been authorized but do not meet the required quality standards or specifications.
The ANMPS defines counterfeit products as medical products whose identity, composition, or source is presented in a misleading, deliberate, or fraudulent manner. The agency has identified several indicators of suspect products, including abnormal packaging, unusual appearance, unexpected effects, sales outside authorized channels, and abnormally low prices. These indicators will help identify and report suspect products.
The ANMPS has made it easy for anyone to report suspect products, including patients, consumers, healthcare professionals, pharmacies, healthcare establishments, associations, and other interested parties. There are three ways to make a report: an online form on the ANMPS website, an email to [email protected] , or an official letter deposited at the Ministry of Health's order office.
To facilitate and expedite the processing of reports, the ANMPS recommends providing the product name, dosage, and form, as well as the batch number and expiration date, if possible. Reports should also describe the nature of the problem, the location and circumstances of acquisition or observation, and include photographs of the product, packaging, and labeling, if possible.
Once received, reports are evaluated by ANMPS experts. Depending on the level of risk to health, the agency may decide to withdraw a batch, suspend its marketing, or inform healthcare professionals and the public. The ANMPS ensures that the identity of the reporter is treated confidentially and is only communicated to third parties with their consent or within the legal framework.
The ANMPS also allows for anonymous reporting. After evaluation, the agency takes necessary actions to mitigate risks to public health. The ANMPS's efforts aim to ensure the quality and safety of medical products in Tunisia.
The ANMPS's call for reporting suspect medical products is part of its efforts to strengthen the regulation of medical products in Tunisia. The agency continues to work with stakeholders to protect public health and ensure the availability of safe and effective medical products.
Key points
- The ANMPS urges citizens and healthcare professionals to report suspect medical products to protect public health.
- The agency has identified indicators of suspect products, including abnormal packaging and unusual appearance.
- Reports can be made through an online form, email, or official letter.
