In response to the escalating misuse of pharmaceutical drugs among addicts, the National Medicines Regulatory Authority has announced joint efforts with the Police Narcotics Bureau to intensify raids targeting illicit drug distribution networks.
A crucial step in this endeavor was the training session held today (10) at the National Medicines Regulatory Authority, where 50 officers from the Police Narcotics Bureau were equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to conduct effective raids.
Amita Perera, Food and Drug Inspector at the NMRA, revealed that approximately 10 types of pharmaceutical drugs are being abused by addicts. These include medications intended for cancer patients, potent painkillers administered post-surgery, drugs prescribed for spinal cord injuries, and psychiatric medications.
Perera emphasized the severity of the issue, noting that recent raids have uncovered a concerning trend: individuals aged between 20 and 50 years are increasingly turning to powerful painkillers for non-medical purposes.
