Ministry issues alert over stolen prescription pad for controlled drugs

A prescription pad for controlled drugs was stolen from the office of a neurologist at a local hospital, following which the UAE Ministry of Health has asked pharmacists to watch out while issuing such medicines.

In a circular issued to all private pharmacies, the ministry said that the stolen forms could be used to obtain controlled drugs illegally. All pharmacists in the country have been asked to keep an eye out for particular serial numbers.

However, the hospital concerned reported on Tuesday that the suspect had been apprehended. “Do not disburse any medicines on prescriptions with the numbers ranging from 209651 to 209700,” read the circular that was issued last week.

The incident took place at Mediclinic Welcare Hospital recently when the office of a neurosurgeon was broken into. In a statement issued to Khaleej Times, Dr Lisa Pinto, hospital director, Mediclinic Welcare Hospital, said, “Mediclinic Welcare Hospital is aware of the break-in to one of its consulting rooms in which a controlled drugs prescription pad was stolen, and has reported the matter to the Ministry of Health and Dubai Police. The police are now handling the matter and have apprehended the suspect in another location.

“This is the first occurrence of this nature and we will be implementing further security measures to ensure that such an incident cannot happen again.”

The UAE has strict laws with regard to controlled drugs, misuse of which can lead to varying jail terms.

asmaalizain@khaleejtimes.com