Medications not allowed in Malaysia

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Medications are subject to strict regulations in Malaysia, governed by the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952. Importing certain medications into Malaysia is prohibited unless authorized by the Minister. Violating these regulations can lead to fines or imprisonment.

List of Prohibited Medications in Malaysia

In Malaysia, there are strict regulations regarding the importation and use of medications. The following is a list of some prohibited medications based on the guidelines provided by the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Division, Ministry of Health Malaysia:

  1. Prohibited Active Ingredients:
  • 1,3-dimethylamylamine (DMAA)
  • Aristolochic Acid
  • Aminopyrine/ Amidopyrine
  • Astemizole
  • Bacillus Coagulans
  • Berberine
  • Butobarbitone
  • Chlormezanone
  • Thioridazine
  • Tegaserod
  • Terfenadine
  1. Prohibited Combinations:
  • Ampicillin + Cloxacillin
  • Antibiotics + Papain/ Prolase
  • Antacid + Charcoal
  • Combinations With Any Barbiturates
  • Combinations of Two or More Analgesics with the Same Mode of Action
  • Combinations Of Vitamin (S) With Other Drugs
    (e.g., Vitamin (S) + Appetite Suppressant, Vitamin (S) + Corticosteroid)
  • Combinations Containing Spironolactone
  • Corticosteroids + Antihistamines
  1. Restricted Active Ingredients and Combinations:
  • Nasal Decongestant Expectorant/Antitussive
  • Vitamin(s) Eye Drops
  1. Restricted Excipients:
  • Tartrazine (CI= 19140, FD & C Yellow No.5, E102)
    (Not allowed in certain preparations)
  • Red 2G
    (Not allowed in certain preparations)

These restrictions aim to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals in Malaysia and to prevent the misuse or abuse of certain substances. It is essential to adhere to these regulations when importing or using medications in the country.

For more detailed information and updates on permitted, prohibited, and restricted substances in Malaysia, it is advisable to refer to the official guidelines provided by the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Division, Ministry of Health Malaysia.

How to get antibiotics in Malaysia

In Malaysia, to get antibiotics, you typically need to consult with a doctor at a clinic who will then provide you with a prescription for the antibiotics. In Malaysia, medical consultation and dispensing of medicine usually occur in the same place, so you would pick up the prescribed antibiotics at the doctor’s clinic rather than at a pharmacy. It is essential to note that antibiotics should not be used without a prescription as they are not needed for every illness and can contribute to the development of superbugs.

Self-medication of antibiotics is a common issue in Malaysia, with studies showing that a significant percentage of university students engage in self-medication with antibiotics obtained from local retail pharmacies for reasons such as cost savings and convenience. The misuse of antibiotics can lead to antimicrobial resistance, which is a growing concern globally. It is crucial to handle antibiotics with care, ensuring that they are obtained through proper channels and used as prescribed to prevent antibiotic resistance.

In Malaysia, efforts have been made to address antibiotic resistance through measures like antimicrobial stewardship programs and public health campaigns to promote correct antibiotic use and raise awareness about antibiotic resistance. The general public in Malaysia has shown knowledge gaps regarding antibiotic use and resistance, highlighting the importance of education and awareness campaigns to promote prudent antibiotic use.

Overall, in Malaysia, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and prescription of antibiotics to ensure their appropriate use and effectiveness while minimizing the risk of contributing to antibiotic resistance.

How to get a prescription in Malaysia

To obtain a prescription in Malaysia, you can visit a local pharmacy and purchase prescription medications without a prescription, provided they are not classified as dangerous drugs. These include common medications like blood pressure medications, antibiotics, and eye drops.

However, for certain medications like painkillers, you will need a prescription. You can also order prescription medications online using services like Alpro Pharmacy or DoctorOnCall, where you can consult with an online doctor and receive a prescription electronically.

Prohibited Medications:

  1. Dangerous Drugs: The Act prohibits the import of dangerous drugs specified in Parts III, IV, and V of the First Schedule without authorization.
  2. Medicinal Preparations: While small quantities of dangerous drugs in medicinal preparations are exempt for personal use, larger quantities require authorization.
  3. Controlled Substances: Medications not registered in Malaysia or containing substances harmful to public health are restricted.

Legal Consequences:

  • Importing prohibited medications without authorization is an offense under the Act, punishable by fines or imprisonment.
  • The Act empowers the Minister to regulate the manufacture, sale, and distribution of dangerous drugs to prevent misuse.

Traveler’s Considerations:

  • Travelers should ensure that their prescription medications are legal in Malaysia to avoid legal issues.
  • It is advisable to carry a doctor’s prescription and a letter explaining the need for specific medications when traveling to Malaysia.

Popular Pharmacies in Malaysia

In Malaysia, the pharmacy retail market is a significant industry with several key players dominating the market. Here are some of the popular pharmacies and drugstores in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia:

Pharmacies:

  1. Super Pharmacy Megastore
  2. AA Pharmacy
  3. BIG Pharmacy
  4. Guardian KL Sentral
  5. SARA Medical Supplies

Drugstores:

  1. AA Pharmacy
  2. AEON Wellness
  3. Guardian KL Sentral
  4. BIG Pharmacy
  5. Big Pharmacy

Market Overview:

  • The market is moderately concentrated with the top 5 players being Watsons, Guardian, Caring, Healthlane & Alpro Pharmacy.
  • High Street Based Pharmacies dominate the retail pharmacy market in Malaysia in terms of revenue and number of stores.
  • Prescribed medicines dominate the market in terms of revenue, followed by Over-The-Counter and Non-Pharmaceutical Products.
  • The demand for Non-Pharmaceuticals and OTC products is consistently growing in Mall Based Stores.

Competition and Market Position:

  • The industry is highly competitive with over 35 organized chain brands present across Malaysia.
  • Generics Drugs dominate the market in terms of revenue due to their affordability.
  • Selangor Region has the highest number of pharmacy retail outlets in Malaysia.

Top Companies by Number of Employees:

  1. Watsons Malaysia – 666 employees
  2. Caring Pharmacy Group Bhd – 337 employees
  3. MPS Young Pharmacist Chapter – 322 employees

In conclusion, the pharmacy retail market in Malaysia is dynamic and competitive, with a range of pharmacies and drugstores catering to the diverse needs of consumers across the country.

In conclusion, strict regulations govern the importation of medications into Malaysia, emphasizing the importance of compliance with the country’s laws to avoid legal repercussions.

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