Dj Vnyash
On Wednesday, the Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) issued a warning regarding the unregistered and substandard drug, Floracil 1000 (Fluorouracil 1000mg/2ml injection), announcing its immediate ban from the Kenyan market. This action followed a routine surveillance that revealed the drug, manufactured by an Indian pharmaceutical company, was unregistered and did not meet required standards.
The Board advised both the public and healthcare professionals against the sale, use, or distribution of Floracil 1000, stressing that doing so could result in severe consequences. It further pledged to cooperate with government agencies to take legal action against those involved in introducing this unregistered product to the market, in violation of the Pharmacy and Poisons Act (CAP 244).
Floracil 1000 is used to treat various types of cancer, including gastric, breast, and lung cancer, by inhibiting the proliferation of cancer cells. It is often used alongside other treatments, such as radiation or chemotherapy.
Additionally, the PPB has issued a quarantine order for Mefnac Oral Suspension (Mefenamic Acid 50mg/5ml) after it was found to be contaminated with Diethylene Glycol (DEG)/Ethylene Glycol (EG) beyond acceptable levels. The Board has urged all pharmaceutical outlets, healthcare facilities, and the public to stop using or distributing the product until further notice.
The PPB reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety and quality of healthcare products, encouraging the public to report any cases of substandard drugs through various communication channels.
Silverio Omari
