Addictive Behaviour Specialist, Dr Annie Gaisie, has called for enhanced monitoring systems and routine drug testing within hospitals to curb the rising abuse of painkillers and other controlled substances by healthcare professionals.
Her comments follow growing concerns from stakeholders about the increasing misuse of pethidine, a potent pain reliever, particularly among medical staff.
Speaking on Channel One TV's Breakfast Daily, Dr Gaisie warned that pethidine, while effective for pain management, is highly addictive and can lead to serious side effects, including drowsiness, slowed reaction time, and even suicidal thoughts.
According to her, hospitals must closely track the procurement and administration of such drugs to prevent misuse without proper prescriptions. "It is about tracking.
