NAFDAC Issues Public Alert: Benylin Paediatric Syrup Recall Over Toxicity Concerns

In a recent development, the National Agency for Food and Drug Control (NAFDAC) has issued a public alert regarding the recall of a specific lot of Benylin Paediatric Syrup manufactured by Johnson & Johnson. This decision comes in response to alarming findings of toxicity discovered during laboratory analysis.

The statement released by NAFDAC on April 11 reveals that laboratory tests have uncovered an unacceptable high level of Diethylene Glycol in the product. Diethylene Glycol, a known toxic substance, has been found to cause acute oral toxicity in laboratory animals. This discovery poses significant health risks to consumers, particularly children for whom the syrup is intended.

Benylin Paediatric Syrup is commonly used for the relief of cough symptoms, congestion, and the treatment of hay fever and other allergic conditions in children aged 2 to 12 years. However, the presence of Diethylene Glycol in the recalled lot raises serious concerns.

According to the risk statement issued by NAFDAC, Diethylene Glycol is highly toxic to humans when ingested and can potentially be fatal. Its toxic effects may manifest as abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, urinary retention, headache, altered mental state, and acute kidney injury, ultimately leading to death.

In light of these findings, NAFDAC has urged importers, distributors, retailers, and consumers to exercise utmost caution and vigilance within the supply chain. It is imperative to prevent the importation, distribution, sale, and use of substandard or contaminated regulated products like the affected Benylin Paediatric Syrup.

Healthcare professionals and consumers alike are strongly advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicion of substandard or falsified medicines to the nearest NAFDAC office. They can also contact NAFDAC through the dedicated hotline at 0800-162-3322 or via email at sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng.

This recall underscores the importance of rigorous quality control measures in the pharmaceutical industry to ensure the safety and well-being of consumers. NAFDAC’s prompt action serves as a reminder of its commitment to safeguarding public health and maintaining the integrity of regulated products in the market.