Edo restates NAFDAC warning on Indian syrups after deaths in The Gambia

The Edo State Government has banned the sale and usage of four syrups that are being investigated by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

The medicines have been linked to kidney injury and death of over 66 children in The Gambia.

They are Promethazine Oral Solution, Kofexmalin Baby Cough Syrup, Makoff Baby Cough Syrup and Magrip N Cold Syrup.

The products were manufactured by an Indian company, Maiden Pharmaceuticals.

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) issued an alert on Sunday.

In a statement on Monday, Edo Commissioner for Health, Prof. Obehi Akoria urged pharmacies to get rid of the medicines if in stock.

Akoria said laboratory analysis confirmed unacceptable quantities of diethylene glycol and ethylene glycol which are toxic to humans and may cause death.

“All pharmaceutical outlets who may have these medicines in stock must dispose of them forthwith, using the appropriate channels.

“Please be vigilant! Do not use any of these drugs. No baby or toddler should be given cough or cold syrups”, the official warned.