The Tunisian pharmacists' union, Syndicat des pharmaciens d’officine de Tunisie (Spot), has urged authorities to take a firmer stance against counterfeit medications. In a statement released on November 13, 2026, the union expressed disappointment that authorities have only issued warnings to healthcare professionals, rather than taking concrete action against those involved in the distribution of fake medications. The union emphasized that this approach has proven ineffective in curbing the spread of counterfeit medications.
The union's comments come in response to a recent alert about the counterfeit medication Dysport, used to treat muscle and neurological disorders. Spot noted that Dysport is a "consignment" medication, exclusively imported by the Pharmacie centrale de Tunisie (PCT). As such, it can only be received and dispensed to patients through licensed pharmacies, which constitute the sole legal and secure distribution channel. The union questioned why the alert did not stress the exclusive role of pharmacies in controlling and overseeing the medication.
Spot called for the immediate transfer of cases involving counterfeit medications to judicial authorities, in line with procedures followed by the Inspection pharmaceutique, an independent directorate under the Health Ministry. The directorate is responsible for ensuring compliance with laws and regulations governing pharmaceutical professions and products. The union also raised concerns about the role of the Inspection médicale in monitoring the practices of other healthcare professionals involved in the issue.
According to Spot, protecting the pharmaceutical system goes beyond warning against counterfeit medications. It requires eliminating sources of counterfeit medication, securing legitimate distribution channels, and prosecuting those involved in the introduction, possession, or use of fake medications outside the legal framework. The union stressed that authorities must take a proactive and rigorous approach to addressing the issue.
The issue of counterfeit medications in Tunisia has significant implications for public health. Spot's criticism of the authorities' inaction highlights the need for a more effective response to the problem. The union's call for stricter action and greater accountability from authorities is a step towards addressing the issue and ensuring the safety of patients.
The authorities' current approach has been criticized for being too lenient. Spot's statement emphasized that publishing communiqués and warning healthcare professionals to be vigilant is not enough. Concrete action is needed to tackle the root causes of the problem and prevent the spread of counterfeit medications. The union's demands for greater action and accountability from authorities are clear.
The issue of counterfeit medications in Tunisia remains a pressing concern. Spot's criticism of the authorities' inaction and its call for stricter action and greater accountability highlight the need for a more effective response to the problem. The authorities must take concrete steps to address the issue and ensure the safety of patients.
Key points
- The Tunisian pharmacists' union has called for stricter action against counterfeit medications.
- The union criticized the authorities' current approach as ineffective.
- The issue of counterfeit medications in Tunisia has significant implications for public health.
