The World Health Organisation (WHO) has issued an alert
against a batch of contaminated cough syrup identified in Cameroon.
In a statement on Wednesday, the global health body said
samples of the syrup, “Naturcold”, were made available to WHO on June 27 and
analysed in a contracted and prequalified laboratory.
The WHO said analysis found that the product contained
unacceptable amounts of diethylene glycol as contaminants.
Diethylene glycol is a colourless, odourless, clear liquid
with a sweet taste. It is used as a cheaper alternative to glycerin in cough
syrups.
The agency said while the acceptable limit for diethylene
glycol is no more than 0.10 percent, the chemical was detected in samples of
the product “as much as 28.6 percent”.
“The stated manufacturer of the affected product is listed
on the product packaging as Fraken International (England). The United Kingdom
national regulatory authority, the MHRA, has confirmed that no such company
exists in the UK,” the statement reads.
“Diethylene glycol and ethylene glycol are toxic to humans
when consumed and can prove fatal.
“Enquires are still underway to determine the origin of the
product. Therefore, the stated manufacturer has not provided guarantees to WHO
on the safety and quality of these products.
“The product referenced in this Alert may have marketing
authorizations in other countries or regions. It may also have been distributed
through informal markets to neighboring countries.
“The substandard products referenced in this Alert are
unsafe and their use, especially in children, may result in serious injury or
death.
“Toxic effects can include abdominal pain, vomiting,
diarrhoea, inability to pass urine, headache, altered mental state and acute
kidney injury which may lead to death.
“If you have the
affected product, WHO recommends that you do not use it.
“If you, or someone you know, has or may have used the
affected product, or suffered an adverse reaction or unexpected side-effect
after use, you are advised to seek immediate medical advice from a healthcare
professional.
“WHO requests increased surveillance and diligence within
the supply chains of countries and regions likely to be affected by these
products.
“Increased surveillance of the informal/unregulated market
is also advised.”
In April, the National Agency for Food and Drugs
Administration and Control (NAFDAC) warned Nigerians against use of the cough
syrup, after it was believed to have caused the deaths of six children under
the age of five, at a health facility in Cameroon.
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