Docfan Academy

A good pharmacy starts with two things: a sensible list of what to stock, and a trustworthy supplier. This lesson covers both.

Essential medicines

The WHO describes essential medicines as those that satisfy the priority health-care needs of a population. Countries choose them using evidence on benefit, safety and cost. The result is an essential medicines list (EML). Ethiopia has its own national list, which is updated from time to time, so always use the current edition. A list like this helps hospitals and pharmacies buy what is really needed, supports training and treatment guidelines, and helps keep medicines available at a reasonable cost.

What "generic" means

A generic medicine contains the same active ingredient, in the same strength and dosage form, as an original product, and is expected to work in the same way. It is sold under its generic (INN) name or under a brand name. Generics are often more affordable. A good generic is not a "second-class" medicine. But quality depends on the manufacturer and the supply chain, not on the word "generic" or "brand".

Quality and registered sources

• A medicine should be registered with EFDA before it is sold in Ethiopia.
• Buy only from licensed suppliers who give you an invoice and batch details, and who store and transport medicines properly.
• Be careful with "special offers" from unknown sellers, unregistered products and goods that come without paperwork.
• Keep invoices. They help you trace a batch if there is a problem.
• Report suspected substandard or falsified products.

Poor-quality medicines may contain too little active ingredient, the wrong one, or harmful contaminants. Patients may not recover, infections can become resistant and your pharmacy's good name suffers. A licensed source is your first quality check.