By Staff Reporter
THE Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) has directed outlets countrywide to stop the distribution of Benylin, a popular brand of cough syrup.
Benylin is a product of South African-based pharmaceutical company, Johnson and Johnson.
In a statement Monday, MCAZ recalled the syrup saying it was not safe for human consumption saying the syrup contains Diethylene glycol which is a contaminant toxic for humans when consumed.
Its toxic effects can include abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, inability to pass urine, headache, altered mental state, and acute kidney injury, potentially leading to death.
“While the authority confirms that this product was registered in 2023 for use in Zimbabwe, our import database does not show a record of the importation of this product and more specifically these two batches.
“However, there is a concern that through illegal means, the aforementioned batches of Benylin Paediatric Syrup may find their way into the local market.
“As a precautionary measure, the authority is issuing a recall notice of this product,” MCAZ said.
MCAZ also urged the public to stop giving the syrup to children.
“In the unlikely event that members of the public are in possession of and/or come across this product, please notify the authority and or healthcare provider immediately and desist from administering them to children.
“The cooperation of all stakeholders is essential in ensuring the right of citizens to safe and good quality medicines is protected.
Meanwhile, the authority will intensify its market surveillance activities through strict premises inspections and public awareness to ensure that these products are not circulated,” added MCAZ.
MCAZ also urged members of the public to access medicines from licensed persons and premises for easier monitoring.
