The Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya (PSK) has clarified a widely circulated video showing a pharmacy staff member dispensing topical acyclovir, a cream typically used for skin conditions like herpes, for application in the eyes.

Following preliminary checks, PSK confirmed that the individual in the video is not a licensed pharmacist and is not a member of the society. It stressed the need to distinguish between qualified pharmacists and other pharmacy staff, warning that mislabeling all pharmacy workers as “pharmacists” unfairly tarnishes the profession.

PSK President Dr. Wairimu Mbogo, said that patient safety is paramount, noting that any error involving the wrong formulation or administration route is a serious clinical concern requiring immediate regulatory scrutiny.

At the same time she said medicines for ophthalmic (eye) use differ significantly from dermatological (skin) formulations. Proper prescription review and verification of the administration route are essential to prevent harm to patients.

The incident, Dr. Mbogo said, points to systemic gaps in Kenya’s pharmacy operations. While licensed pharmacists and pharmaceutical technologists can work in regulated outlets under the Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) framework, PSK called on the PPB to: Conduct a thorough investigation into the matter, verify the outlet’s licensing compliance, strengthen prescription verification systems and reinforce accountability and patient safety safeguards nationwide

PSK reassured the public that such incidents do not reflect standard pharmaceutical practice in Kenya.

Dr. Mbogo called on urged stakeholders to view the episode as an opportunity to enhance oversight, build public trust, and protect all Kenyans accessing pharmacy care