By Akinwale Kasali
The World Health Organization, WHO, has raised an alarm over the news of poisoned cough syrups in circulation.
The WHO has, therefore, urged relevant regulatory and medical bodies around the world to forewarn parents and healthcare industry professionals to be on the alert and, has itself issued what it calls a Medical Product Alert.
WHO says the concerns centre on three substandard (contaminated) oral liquid medicines containing active ingredients commonly used to relieve symptoms of the common cold, flu, or cough.
Although identified in India and reported to WHO on 8 October, 2025, there are fears that without proper recall, the poisoned cough syrups may find their way to other countries which receive medicine and drugs supplies from India.
It would be recalled that the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, in May, said it was in receipt of information regarding substandard drugs from the India authorities, following result of analyzed drug samples picked from sales/distribution point.
NAFDAC not only listed the affected drugs, but affirmed that some of the affected pharmaceutical companies were reported to have subsidiaries, partners and products in Nigeria.
“Administering substandard medicines poses significant risks to patient health and public health.
“These risks include poisoning, treatment failure, drug resistance, and even death. Substandard medicines may contain toxic substances, incorrect ingredients, or incorrect dosages, leading to severe adverse effects”, NAFDAC warned.
The Agency advised Importers, distributors, retailers and healthcare professionals to exercise caution and vigilance in any transaction involving the companies to avoid the importation, distribution, sale, and use of substandard products.
Discover more from The Source
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
