Mr Mershack Bankam, a Physician Assistant at HealthWise Hospital in Tema, has cautioned Ghanaians against self-medication, warning that misuse and dangerous dosages could lead to serious health complications.
Mr Bankam advised that individuals should not assume that minor symptoms do not require medical attention, stressing that incorrect self-diagnosis could result in treating the wrong illness and masking severe underlying conditions.
“Misdiagnosis can delay necessary, life-saving treatment,” he stated in an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in Tema.
He explained that while self-medication might offer temporary relief for minor ailments, it carries significant risks, particularly when individuals use medicines without proper diagnosis or professional guidance.
He said improper use of drugs could lead to severe health complications and, in some cases, substance dependence.
The physician assistant emphasised the importance of consulting qualified health professionals for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
He urged Ghanaians to take medications only when prescribed by a healthcare professional and to complete the full course of treatment as directed.
Mr Bankam further warned against sharing medications, using leftover drugs from previous illnesses, or taking higher doses than recommended.
“Misuse and dangerous dosages can result in organ failure, severe allergic reactions, and harmful drug interactions,” he cautioned.
He advised the public to seek medical evaluation whenever symptoms persisted or worsened rather than resorting to over-the-counter remedies without guidance.
Mr Bankam reiterated that responsible medication practices were essential to safeguarding public health and preventing avoidable complications.
Source: GNA
