In light of the recent kindergarten drug scandal, the government is focusing on medical institutions and prescriptions of phenobarbital medications to prevent and stop dangerous misuse.
The Kaohsiung City Government is offering free medical consultations to phenobarbital prescription patients in an effort to track improper prescribing and use.
Looking for any acute and chronic side effects, doctors ask if patients feel any discomfort or have problems sleeping. They also check their breathing, gait stability, and reflex speed. Blood tests are also offered to confirm the presence or absence of phenobarbital medication.
One doctor explains that in light of the recent scandal in Taipei, their hospital has assigned 20 staff members to oversee just the pediatric consultations and testing.
The government investigation includes not only hospitals but also clinics and has already found more than 100 patients under the age of 18 showing symptoms and four clinic doctors who are allegedly involved in the improper prescribing of drugs. A total of 71 of the affected have already arranged for medical evaluation.
Doctors warn that if a young child is frequently sleepy or restless, showing some drowsiness or agitation, parents may need to bring them in for evaluation and testing.
The city of Kaohsiung plans to impose fines and suspensions for violations regarding the safety of children's medication.