Case Study - Regulation of herbal products in Trinidad & Tobago

ABSTRACT

The use and sale of Herbal Medicinal Products continue to grow rapidly both regionally and globally. Many research institutions around the world are working to provide answers to questions, such as "What is/are the active ingrident(s) in ths plant?", "What is the best /safest dosage?", Are there any side-effects/contraindications?", "is it possible that there can be drug interactions?", Should this product be availabe without consulting a professional" They highlight the importance of safety, efficacy, quality and evidence-based usage when dealing with herbal products, as well as the need for some level of screening and evaluation to be done before these products are officially licensed for sale, -- whether as drugs or as 'food supplements". In Trinidad & Tobago, the (final) Draft Regulations permit the Drug Advisory Committee to the Minister of Health to appoint a Herbal Sub-Committee specifically to assist the Drugh Advisory Committee on Standards, Schedules and Conditions of sale for herbal medicinal products. The "herbal medicinal products" are categorized as either "Herbal Medicine" (HM) or as a 'traditional Herbal Remedy (THR). some companies and distribution have already started the process of herbal product registration, and once the regulations become law all herbal medicinal products intended for sale will have comply with the legislation under the anticipted, newly revised Food and Drugs ActAU)