Nigerian health authorities are warning citizens about a potentially dangerous unregistered syrup being sold in the country. The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) issued a public alert on Sunday regarding the illegal production and sale of B-GAG mist pot CIT syrup.
The unregistered syrup was discovered during routine surveillance by NAFDAC officers in Maiduguri, Borno State, and Keffi, Nasarawa State. The product is packaged in a plastic bottle and lacks a crucial NAFDAC registration number, raising concerns about its safety and efficacy.
Potential Health Risks of Unregistered Syrup
NAFDAC Director-General, Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, emphasized the potential health risks associated with consuming unregistered medications. Adeyeye stressed that without proper regulatory oversight, there’s no guarantee the product meets safety, quality, and effectiveness standards.
The agency has identified the manufacturer as Babban Gida Agalawa General Enterprises, located on Western Bypass Ring Road in Kano State. The batch number for the unregistered syrup is 0070, with a manufacturing date of February 1, 2024, and an expiration date of February 1, 2027.
NAFDAC Takes Action to Remove Unregistered Syrup
NAFDAC has directed zonal directors and state coordinators to intensify surveillance efforts and remove the unregistered syrup from circulation nationwide. Adeyeye urged consumers and caregivers to exercise caution and avoid using the product.
In addition to taking immediate action to remove the unregistered syrup, NAFDAC is taking steps to educate Nigerians on how to protect themselves from counterfeit or substandard medicines. The agency advises Nigerians to only purchase medications from authorized and licensed suppliers, such as pharmacies or reputable hospitals. Consumers are encouraged to carefully examine the product’s packaging for the NAFDAC registration number and any signs of tampering.
NAFDAC is urging Nigerians to be vigilant and report any suspected sales of substandard or falsified medicines or medical devices. This can be done by contacting their nearest NAFDAC office or calling the agency’s hotline at 0800-162-3322. Reports can also be submitted electronically via email at sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng.
Reporting Adverse Reactions
Healthcare professionals and patients play a vital role in ensuring medication safety. NAFDAC encourages them to report any adverse reactions or side effects experienced while using medicinal products. This reporting helps identify potential problems with medications and protects public health.
Nigerian authorities are also collaborating with international organizations to prevent the spread of unregistered medications. NAFDAC will upload a notice regarding the unregistered B-GAG syrup to the World Health Organization’s Global Surveillance and Monitoring System. This will alert health agencies in other countries about potential health risks and prevent the product from being sold internationally.
NAFDAC encourages Nigerians to stay informed about potential health risks by following the agency’s social media channels and website for updates on product recalls and safety alerts. Consumers can also sign up for email notifications to receive the latest information directly from NAFDAC.
By working together, Nigerian authorities, healthcare professionals, and the public can help ensure the safety and quality of medications available in the country.
Source: Punch
