Pharmacy Board orders withholding of drug used to relieve menstrual pain over contamination concerns

The government has ordered the immediate withholding of Mefnac Oral Suspension (Mefenamic Acid 50mg/5ml) manufactured by Efroze Chemical Industries Pvt Ltd, Pakistan.

The Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) announced the move on Wednesday, after detecting suspected contamination with Diethylene Glycol (DEG) and Ethylene Glycol (EG) at levels exceeding acceptable limits.

Mefnac Oral Suspension, containing Mefenamic Acid, is commonly used to treat mild to moderate pain, including menstrual pain, and to reduce inflammation and fever. However, the suspected contamination of this product with harmful substances has raised significant safety concerns.

In its directive, the PPB instructed all pharmaceutical outlets, healthcare facilities, and professionals, as well as the public, to cease distribution, sale, issuance, and use of the product until further notice.

The board emphasised that failure to comply with the order could pose serious health risks to patients.

The PPB also encouraged healthcare professionals and members of the public to report any cases of substandard medicines or adverse drug reactions.

The cases can be reported through their various channels including their online portal:https://pv.pharmacyboardkenya.org/users/mpublic or use USSD code: Mobile application: mPvERS (available on Android and iOS).

Cases can also be channelled to their email: [email protected] or [email protected] or telephone number: 0795743049.

The board reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety and efficacy of medicines in the market, urging vigilance to protect public health.