The National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control has issued a notification to the Nigerian populace regarding a presumed substandard cough syrup by the name of ‘Naturcold.’
It is purported that the cough syrup produced by Fraken Group has been linked to the fatalities of six minors who were below the age of five years at a medical institution located in the health district of Fundong, situated in the North-West region of Cameroon.
The North-West Regional of Cameroon’s representative for public health claims that the kids’ kidney function declined after ingesting the allegedly subpar cough medication.
According to a press release posted on NAFDAC’s website, the product was obtained from unreliable sources and is not allowed for distribution in Cameroon.
“Although the product is not in 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. All medical products must be obtained from authorised/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,” the agency noted.
