Pharmacy Act, 1974 (Act No. 53 Of 1974)

The South African Pharmacy Council (SAPC) in terms of section 35A of the Pharmacy Act (Act No. 53 of 1974) regulates the practice of pharmacy within South Africa. SAPC ensures that all responsible pharmacists, pharmacy support personnel and pharmacy owners provide pharmaceutical services that comply with good pharmacy practice standards prescribed in the Pharmacy Act and relevant provisions of the Medicines and Related Substances Act.

The Medicines Act, in section 16(d), provides for possession of medicines or scheduled substances for sale by the pharmacists or a person licenced to own a pharmacy in terms of the Pharmacy Act, 1974 or a person who is the holder of a license as completed in section 22C of the Medicines Act.

The SAPC has, in terms of section 38A of the Pharmacy Act, appointed inspection officers with a view to monitoring pharmacies for compliance. The provisions of the Pharmacy Act include investigation of complaints received alleging misconduct or unprofessional conduct.