Health officials warn against paediatric cough medicines by Maiden Pharmaceuticals
The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority and the World Health Organisation have cautioned people against giving children medicine from an Indian company called Maiden Pharmaceuticals.
Nothing breaks a parent's heart more than seeing their child sick.
With the recent change of season, many children are suffering from allergies, colds, and flu.
Although there are many medications on the counter, not all of them are safe.
The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority has just issued a warning against consuming medicine made by an Indian business called Maiden Pharmaceuticals.
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The names of the medications are:
- Promethazine Oral Solution
- Kofexmalin Baby Cough Syrup
- Makoff Baby Cough Syrup
- Magrip N Cold Syrup.
It states that these medications can be bought at informal markets.
According to the World Health Organisation, the medications contain high levels of chemicals that can damage a child’s kidneys.
The statement on the site states that the medication has been potentially linked with acute kidney injuries and 66 deaths among children.
"WHO is conducting further investigation with the company and regulatory authorities in India. While the contaminated products have so far only been detected in The Gambia, they may have been distributed to other countries. WHO recommends all countries detect and remove these products from circulation to prevent further harm to patients," reads a statement on the site.
Maiden Pharmaceuticals is also recalling their products.
"The ongoing investigations have indicated that some of the Maiden medicinal pro-Oucls are contaminated with harmful substances (Ethylene and Diethylene Glycol)," reads a statement on the site.
It requested the public to proceed with the immediate recall of all Maiden products including syrups, tablets, capsules, and injections.
Image courtesy of iStock/ @dolgachov
Disclaimer: Health-related information provided in this article is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems. It is always advisable to consult with your doctor on any health-related issues.