National Drug Authority

Regulatory body for pharmaceuticals in Uganda

The National Drug Authority (NDA) is a government agency in Uganda responsible for regulating the manufacture, importation, distribution, and use of pharmaceuticals and other medical products. The NDA ensures that all drugs and medical products in Uganda meet the required standards of safety, efficacy, and quality.

History

The National Drug Authority was established in 1993 under the National Drug Policy and Authority Act. The creation of the NDA was part of a broader effort to improve healthcare in Uganda by ensuring that all pharmaceuticals available in the country are safe and effective.

Functions

The primary functions of the National Drug Authority include:

• Regulation of Pharmaceuticals: The NDA regulates the importation, manufacture, and distribution of pharmaceuticals to ensure they meet safety and quality standards.
• Licensing: The authority is responsible for licensing pharmacies, drug shops, and pharmaceutical manufacturers.
• Inspection and Surveillance: The NDA conducts regular inspections of pharmaceutical facilities and monitors the market for counterfeit or substandard drugs.
• Public Education: The authority engages in public education campaigns to inform the public about the safe use of medicines.

Structure

The National Drug Authority is governed by a board of directors and is headed by an executive director. The agency is organized into several departments, each responsible for different aspects of drug regulation, including:

• Drug Assessment and Registration
• Inspectorate and Enforcement
• Quality Control
• Pharmacovigilance

Challenges

The NDA faces several challenges, including the proliferation of counterfeit drugs, limited resources, and the need to keep up with advancements in pharmaceutical technology. Despite these challenges, the NDA continues to work towards ensuring the availability of safe and effective medicines in Uganda.

Impact

The work of the National Drug Authority has had a significant impact on public health in Uganda. By ensuring that drugs are safe and effective, the NDA helps to prevent adverse drug reactions and improve the overall quality of healthcare in the country.

Related pages

• Ministry of Health (Uganda)
• Pharmacy
• Drug regulation