Cajamarca Authorities Close Dozens of Pharmacies Amidst Regulatory Crackdown
CAJAMARCA, Peru – regional health authorities in Cajamarca have temporarily shuttered 64 pharmaceutical establishments so far in September as part of an ongoing effort to ensure public health and safety. The closures, primarily in the city of Cajamarca, stem from inspections conducted jointly with the Directorate of Control, Control and health Surveillance.
Officials report 45 premises were closed due to moderately serious observations, while 12 were sanctioned for selling counterfeit, smuggled, or products of dubious origin. the crackdown targets establishments operating without qualified pharmaceutical chemists or adequately trained personnel.
“The objective is to verify compliance with the regulations that guarantee the proper functioning of pharmaceutical establishments in the safeguarding of the health of the population,” a regional official stated.
The region faces a significant challenge in staffing its pharmacies and apothecaries. While the Pharmaceutical College of Cajamarca lists approximately 1,000 registered professionals, the region currently operates more than 2,000 establishments. authorities are exploring a strategy allowing a single pharmacist to provide technical assistance to two locations, but emphasize the necessity of professional oversight.
“If there is no professional in the pharmacy, regrettably no one can guarantee their products,” the official warned. concerns are mounting over the prevalence of substandard medications being sold, with authorities describing the situation as ”critical.”
Businesses operating informally are urged to regularize their status with the Regional Directorate of Medicines, Inputs and Drugs. Those lacking a pharmaceutical chemist are advised to instantly hire a qualified professional to avoid sanctions.
Temporary closures typically last 30 days, with establishments eligible for reopening within 15 days of addressing the identified deficiencies.
Source: Andina
