Who regulates the safety of prescription drugs in Kenya?

In Kenya, the Ministry of Health is charged with facilitating rational use of drugs through sound prescribing, good dispensing practices, and appropriate usage, under the National Drug Policy.

Why is the abuse of prescription drugs in society on the rise?

• Research shows that prescription pills have become popular among young adults because they are easy to get.

• Prescription drugs represent a more socially acceptable way of getting high than taking street drugs.

• The expiration date, required in several countries, specifies the date the manufacturer guarantees the full potency and safety of a drug, this guarantees the user a certain effect upon use

• Results show that about 90% of all legal drugs are safe and effective as far as 15 years past their expiration date and thus when disposed after the given expiration dates, they can easily be sold to the public for non-medical use.