Baghdad, Iraq- The Pharmacists Union confirmed on Thursday that the process of pricing medicines in the private sector has reached its final stages. This development will ensure the availability of safe, tested, and fairly priced medicines for consumers. Additionally, the union emphasized the importance of purchasing medicines and dietary supplements through prescriptions and from trusted sources to guarantee public health safety.
Union President Haider Fouad stated that the pricing process has been long awaited since 2017. At that time, the union submitted a request to price medicines, and since then, efforts have continued to achieve this goal. Now, the initiative has advanced significantly, with the project nearing completion.
Fouad explained that the project aims not only to support local pharmaceutical production but also to ensure the pricing of all medicines in the private sector. In addition, it will guarantee that medicines are officially tested and registered.
However, determining a final implementation date for this pricing system is not an easy task. The process requires collaboration from multiple governmental bodies, including the Ministry of Health, health authorities, and both the pharmacists’ and doctors’ unions. Moreover, security forces will help monitor borders to prevent the entry of unregistered drugs.
Fouad stressed that these efforts are in the best interest of citizens. The initiative will provide safe, tested, and fairly priced medicines. He also addressed the issue of over-the-counter medicines and dietary supplements, warning that purchasing them without a prescription can lead to serious health consequences. The Ministry of Health, along with the Pharmacists Union and other relevant authorities, has flagged this issue.
While the Pharmacists Union is not directly responsible for controlling this matter, Fouad assured that they are coordinating with the relevant agencies to find appropriate solutions. He pointed out that many products, especially those used in sports halls, do not undergo proper regulation, which calls for urgent action to ensure all medicines and supplements meet health standards.
Fouad emphasized the need for public awareness about buying medicines and supplements from reliable sources. This will ensure the health and safety of all citizens, preventing unnecessary health risks.
