The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has issued a public alert regarding the recall of Benylin Paediatric (100MLS) Syrup, LOT No 329304, by the Nigerian National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration (NAFDAC) from the Nigerian market.

Manufactured by Johnson & Johnson (Ply), South Africa, Benylin Paediatric (100MLS) Syrup is a cough mixture. The recall was prompted by the detection of an ‘unacceptable high level’ of diethylene glycol (DEG) in the product, a chemical substance harmful to humans.

Dr. Delese Mimi Darko, CEO of the FDA, emphasized the dangers of consuming DEG, which include headaches, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. Severe cases may lead to paralysis, convulsions, acute kidney disease, and even death.

While assuring the public that the affected lot is not available on the Ghanaian market, the FDA has heightened surveillance at ports to prevent its entry. Since 2022, all syrup formulations imported into Ghana undergo sampling and testing for DEG and ethylene glycol.

Although samples of other lots of Benylin Paediatric 100ml syrup on the Ghanaian market tested negative for DEG, the public is urged to remain vigilant. Anyone who comes across the affected lot of Benylin Paediatric Syrup is encouraged to report it to FDA offices across the country.

This cautionary measure underscores the FDA’s commitment to ensuring public safety and preventing the distribution of potentially harmful products in Ghana.

Source by Daily Graphic