Dermatology Association Warns Against Improper Hair Drug Prescriptions in Malta
Valletta, Malta – The Maltese Association of Dermatology and Venereology (MADV) issued a strong warning on friday regarding the increasing practice of non-medical practitioners prescribing prescription medications for hair and scalp conditions. The association characterized the trend as ”deplorable” and cautioned that inappropriate use of these drugs could lead to “perhaps serious consequences.”
according to MADV, they are observing a rise in cases where trichologists not registered as medical doctors are prescribing treatments. These medications are then “being liberally dispensed” by some community pharmacies.
“Drugs such as potent topical steroids, antibiotics, 5-alpha reductase inhibitors and JAK inhibitors are prescription medication with potentially serious consequences if employed inappropriately and can only be prescribed by medical doctors,” stated MADV President Lawrence scerri. He further emphasized the risks of delayed or incorrect treatment, warning that it “may result in permanent disfiguring scarring and worsening hair loss.”
The association clarified that pharmacists are legally prohibited from dispensing these medications without a valid prescription from a qualified medical practitioner,which must include the doctor’s official medical registration number.
MADV stressed that a medical degree and registration with the Maltese Medical Council are prerequisites for being considered a medical doctor, clarifying that not all trichologists meet these criteria. The association’s statement aims to protect public health by ensuring that potent medications are only administered under the care of appropriately qualified physicians.
