NAFDAC warns against cough syrup linked to death of six children in Cameroon

The National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has warned Nigerians against the use of  “Naturcold”, a substandard cough syrup.

The agency, in a statement, said the ministry of health in Cameroon issued an alert regarding the syrup after it was believed to have caused the deaths of six children under the age of five at a health facility in the country.

NAFDAC said the children showed a decrease in kidney function after consuming the product which was not authorised for marketing in Cameroon.

“The product is not in the NAFDAC database, importers, distributors, retailers, and consumers are advised to exercise caution and vigilance within the supply chain to avoid the importation, distribution, sale, and use of the substandard (contaminated) syrups,” the statement reads.

“All medical products must be obtained from authorized/licensed suppliers. The products’ authenticity and physical condition should be carefully checked.

“NAFDAC implores members of the public to desist from purchasing medicinal products from unauthorised sources such as roadside vendors and street hawkers as fake drugs are mostly smuggled into the country from neighbouring countries and distributed through such inappropriate channels.

“Anyone in possession of the above-mentioned product is advised to discontinue sale or use and submit stock to the nearest NAFDAC office. If you, or someone you know, have used these products, or suffered any adverse reaction/event after use, you are advised to seek immediate medical advice from a qualified healthcare professional.

“Healthcare professionals and consumers are advised to report any suspicion of sale and use of substandard and falsified medicines to the nearest NAFDAC office, NAFDAC on 0800-162-3322 or via email: [email protected].”