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A pharmacy in Siu Sai Wan was raided today (March 13) in a joint operation by the Department of Health (DH) and the Police for suspected illegal sale of an antibiotic.
Through the DH's surveillance programme, the pharmacy was found to be selling a bottle of topical antibiotic solution without a doctor's prescription. During the operation, a 40-year-old salesman at the pharmacy was arrested.
The DH's investigation is continuing.
The antibiotic concerned contains clindamycin, which is used for the treatment of acne. Side effects include skin irritation such as swelling, itching, and peeling.
The product can only be supplied at registered pharmacies by registered pharmacists or under their supervision and upon a doctor's prescription. It should only be used under the advice of a doctor. According to the Antibiotics Ordinance (Cap 137), illegal sale of antibiotics without a doctor's prescription is a criminal offence. The maximum penalty is a fine of $30,000 and one year's imprisonment.
"Members of the public should only use antibiotics prescribed by a doctor and follow health professionals' instructions. Inappropriate and irrational use of antibiotics provides favourable conditions for resistant microorganisms to emerge and spread," a DH spokesperson said.
Ends/Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Issued at HKT 16:42
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