By Sallieu S. Kanu
Freetown, 28 October 2025: The Pharmacy Board of Sierra Leone (PBSL), operating under the supervision of the Ministry of Health, has issued a public statement in response to a widely circulated social media video titled “Hon…… Speaks Truth to Power”, authored by former Hon. Alhaji Musa Tarawally.
The Board acknowledged the public interest generated by the video and used the opportunity to clarify its regulatory mandate and reaffirm its commitment to safeguarding public health.
The PBSL emphasized its role as a statutory body responsible for ensuring that all medicines and health products imported, distributed, and sold in Sierra Leone meet rigorous standards of quality, safety, and efficacy. It operates under the policy direction of the Ministry of Health.
Addressing concerns about the spread of Kush and other illegal drugs, the PBSL highlighted its active participation in a multi-sectoral national effort. This includes collaboration with:
- National Public Health Agency (NPHA)
- Presidential Task Force on Kush
- Transnational Organized Crime Unit (TOCU)
- National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA)
These partnerships aim to prevent and disrupt the circulation of unregistered or illegal substances.
The PBSL clarified that there is currently no scientific or regulatory evidence linking Kush to prescription medicines dispensed by duly registered pharmacies in Sierra Leone. The Board continues to enforce strict pharmacovigilance and inspection protocols to maintain this standard.
Tramadol Regulation and Pain Management Review
The Board reiterated its policy that no oral Tramadol product exceeding 120 mg of active ingredient is authorized for importation. All registered formulations fall below this threshold.
In response to growing concerns over misuse, the PBSL announced plans to initiate a comprehensive review of national pain management protocols. This review will be conducted in collaboration with:
- Pharmaceutical Society of Sierra Leone (PSSL)
- Sierra Leone Pharmaceutical Business Association (SLPBA)
- Sierra Leone Medical and Dental Council (SLMDC)
- Sierra Leone Medical and Dental Association (SLMDA)
The goal is to identify safer, evidence-based alternatives for pain management, with any policy changes grounded in clinical and regulatory evidence.
Assurance of Quality and Public Safety
The PBSL concluded by assuring the public of its unwavering commitment to maintaining high standards of regulatory oversight for all medicines, health products, and pharmaceutical outlets. The Board pledged continued collaboration with the Ministry of Health and national partners to strengthen the regulatory system and protect the health and wellbeing of all Sierra Leoneans.
For further information, contact: 📞 +232-99-177177 📧 info@pharmacyboard.gov.sl 🌐 www.pharmacyboard.gov.sl