Mr. Mershack Bankam, a Physician Assistant at HealthWise Hospital, has urged Ghanaians to avoid self-medicating, highlighting the serious health risks associated with unsupervised drug use.
In an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in Tema, Mr. Bankam cautioned that misdiagnosis and incorrect dosages could mask severe illnesses, delay life-saving treatment, or even cause substance dependence.
“Self-medication may offer temporary relief, but using medicines without professional guidance can result in organ failure, severe allergic reactions, and dangerous drug interactions,” he stressed.
He advised that only qualified health professionals should diagnose and prescribe treatment, and that medications should always be taken according to the prescribed dosage and completed as instructed.
Mr. Bankam also warned against sharing drugs, using leftover medicines, or increasing doses without advice, noting that such practices pose significant risks to personal health.
He urged the public to seek medical attention promptly when symptoms persist or worsen, emphasizing that responsible medication practices are crucial for safeguarding public health and preventing avoidable complications.
This warning comes amid growing concern over over-the-counter drug misuse and the rising trend of self-treatment in communities across Ghana.
