The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has warned healthcare workers, importers, distributors, retailers, and the public about four medicines recalled by Pakistan's drug authority due to quality issues.
This warning came in a public alert released on Friday, following a recall by the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) of certain batches of the medicines.
The recalled medicines are Nitras tablets, Kadin 2 tablets, Acefyl cough syrup, and Loratadine 24 tablets.
NAFDAC stated that these products were recalled after they were found to be adulterated or substandard. The regulatory findings showed quality defects and contamination.
The agency mentioned that these affected products could cause serious health problems if used. These include reduced effectiveness, unexpected side effects, and treatment failures.
Patients taking medicines for heart issues, allergies, muscle spasms, and coughs might face higher risks of complications.
The affected products are Nitras tablets, which have glyceryl trinitrate. They are made by M/s Caraway Pharma in Rawat, with batch number 24L069. This product is classified as substandard.
Kadin 2 tablets contain tizanidine hydrochloride and are made by M/S FYNK Pharma in Lahore, with batch number 569. This product is classified as adulterated.
Acefyl cough syrup has acefylline piperazine and is made by M/s NABIQASIM Industries in Karachi, with batch number ACH479. This syrup is also classified as adulterated.
Loratadine 24 tablets contain loratadine and are made by M/S Murfy Pharma in Lahore, with batch number 24. This product is classified as adulterated too.
NAFDAC said it is keeping an eye on the situation to ensure that the recalled medicines do not enter Nigeria.
The agency has instructed all its zonal directors and state coordinators to conduct checks and remove the affected products if they find them in their areas.
NAFDAC urged importers, distributors, hospitals, pharmacies, and the public to stay alert throughout the medical supply chain.
"Healthcare professionals and consumers should avoid buying and using the recalled products," NAFDAC said. The agency stressed that medicines should only be bought from licensed suppliers.
It also advised consumers to check the authenticity and physical condition of medicines before using them.
NAFDAC encouraged anyone who suspects the sale or distribution of substandard or fake medicines or medical devices to report such cases to the nearest NAFDAC office.
The agency provided its toll-free number, 0800-162-3322, and email for such reports.
NAFDAC also urged healthcare professionals and patients to report any side effects or problems with medicines or medical devices through its E-reporting platforms, the Med Safety application, or email.
For complaints about NAFDAC’s operations, the agency said the public can contact its Reforms Unit or email them.
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