Wrongful use of medicine an alarming trend
Cases of the misuse of Bronchleer, a cough syrup which became infamous for its misuse and is banned in at least one neighbouring country, have lately been reported in Windhoek and especially in the lower income areas of the city.This cough syrup is harmless when used correctly, but according to pharmacists WE consulted (they wish to remain anonymous) it is the substance codeine phosphate in Broncleer that causes people to get high. He warns that an overdose or abuse could lead to respiratory depression, constipation, restlessness, sedation, nausea, vomiting, skeletal muscle flaccidity, hypo-tension and death.
It is a schedule two medicine and readily available over the counter. Costing only about N$14 makes it a popular substitute for more expensive drugs. It is also said to seldom show traces of use in simple drug tests.
WE also spoke to an addict who gave us a glimpse of his shadowy world, often unknown and even denied by many. Aaron (pseudonym) explains why he took it and is now craving for it every day. “After taking the syrup I feel high and dizzy and my mind is functioning super fast. But it also feels as if the syrup goes straight to my mind, making me feel weak later. Then there must be no noise and you will feel like being alone at a quite place.”
He continues: “The drug makes me feel happy and energised, but if I go for a day without taking it, I go crazy and the craving becomes so strong to the extent that I sweat and don’t stop until I get the drug,” says the young man.
The consequences of being addicted can be more than expected and usually results in loss of control. According to one of the pharmacists, the side effects experienced are lack of coordination, mental confusion, visual hallucinations, blurred vision, dry mouth, urinary hesitancy and thickening of secretion. Other side effects are constipation, dizziness and hyperactivity and overdose may result in a coma or possible death.
Both pharmacists confirmed that they may refuse to sell the medicine to a suspected addict. “We get to know our clients and we are very strict with the medication, especially if we know our client is an addict,” one said.
“We usually also suggest medical intervention or treatment at a rehabilitation centre. Addiction is a powerful disease and only trained clinical staff and educated therapists can help a person recover from it,” he added.
The Namibia Medicines Regulatory Council (NMRC) confirmed that Broncleer is a S1 medicine and may be sold without prescription (refer to The Medicines and Related Substances Control Act, Act 13 of 2003, Section 29).
According to the secretary of the Pharmaceutical Society of Namibia the NMRC should be contacted when misuse or abuse is suspected. A practitioner can also be reported to the Pharmacy Council of Namibia if improper conduct is suspected.
“The Pharmaceutical Society of Namibia forwards notices of possible misuse or abuse of medicines to all pharmacies in Namibia, as well as other related matters concerning pharmaceutical care,” she said. “If more information becomes available, we will bring this to the attention of our members and take further action if needed. We also work closely with other health care practitioners to combat these problems.”
Neighbouring country Zimbabwe decided to ban the import of the medicine due to the extent of its misuse there and made an agreement with Botswana that no exports would be authorised from that country.
The Pharmaceutical Society of Namibia can be reached on 061 24 2405 or 061 292 6303.