TMDA Urges Proper Drug Use Amidst Rising Resistance

Tanzania Medicines and Medical Devices Authority (TMDA) issued a strong advisory to the public to refrain from self-medicating without professional guidance.

The statement was made by TMDA’s Director-General, Adam Fimbo, during the 48th Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair (Sabasaba) held at the Mwalimu Julius Nyerere grounds in Dar es Salaam.

Dr. Fimbo highlighted the escalating issue of antimicrobial resistance, attributing it to improper and excessive use of medications. He stressed the importance of adhering to prescribed guidelines to combat this growing threat. TMDA’s participation in the trade fair aims to educate the public on the correct usage of medicines and the responsibilities of the authority.

“Improper use of medications has led to an increase in drug-resistant pathogens, posing significant health risks,” Dr. Fimbo stated. He emphasized TMDA’s commitment to educating the community about proper drug use and reducing the adverse effects of misuse. According to Dr. Fimbo, the misuse of antibiotics is particularly concerning, as it can lead to the development of superbugs that are resistant to multiple drugs.

The authority has been actively working to combat this issue by conducting awareness campaigns and providing training to healthcare professionals. TMDA’s efforts also include the monitoring of drug quality and the regulation of medical devices and diagnostics to ensure they meet safety standards.

At the trade fair, TMDA set up an information booth where visitors could learn about the dangers of self-medication and the importance of following medical advice. The booth featured interactive displays and educational materials designed to engage the public and promote better understanding of the risks associated with improper drug use.

“One of our key messages is that medicines should only be taken when prescribed by a qualified healthcare provider,” Dr. Fimbo explained. “We also want to highlight the importance of completing the full course of treatment as prescribed, even if symptoms improve, to prevent the development of resistance.”

TMDA’s presence at the fair was part of a larger initiative to increase public awareness about health and safety issues. The authority has been collaborating with various stakeholders, including healthcare providers, pharmaceutical companies, and community organizations, to spread the message about the safe use of medicines.

In addition to raising awareness, TMDA has been working on strengthening regulations and enforcement mechanisms to prevent the sale of counterfeit and substandard medicines. This includes conducting regular inspections of pharmacies and healthcare facilities to ensure compliance with safety standards.

The issue of drug resistance is a global concern, and Tanzania is not alone in facing this challenge. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), antimicrobial resistance is one of the top ten global public health threats. It has the potential to undermine the effectiveness of many medical treatments, making infections harder to treat and increasing the risk of disease spread, severe illness, and death.

To address this issue, TMDA has been participating in international collaborations and initiatives aimed at combating antimicrobial resistance. These efforts include sharing data and best practices with other countries and organizations to develop effective strategies for managing and reducing resistance.

As part of its ongoing commitment to public health, TMDA is also involved in research and development projects focused on finding new and innovative ways to combat drug resistance. This includes supporting the development of new antibiotics and alternative treatments that can help reduce the reliance on existing drugs.

For more information on TMDA’s initiatives and guidelines on the proper use of medicines, the public is encouraged to visit the [TMDA website](https://www.tmda.go.tz).

The website offers a wealth of resources, including educational materials, guidelines for healthcare providers, and information on how to report adverse drug reactions.

TMDA’s call to action highlights the critical need for proper drug use to combat the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance. By following medical advice and adhering to prescribed treatments, the public can play a vital role in preserving the effectiveness of medicines and protecting public health.

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