NAFDAC issues warning over killer cough syrup, records six deaths

Nigerians have been cautioned by the National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) about a cough syrup named ‘Naturcold’, which is suspected to be of substandard quality.

The cough syrup is believed to have been manufactured by Fraken Group and is allegedly responsible for the deaths of six children below the age of five in the health district of Fundong, in the North-West region of Cameroon.

The children were reported to have exhibited a decline in kidney function after consuming the cough syrup. The North-West Regional delegate for Public Health stated that the cough syrup was obtained from unauthorized sources and was not authorized for marketing in Cameroon.

NAFDAC issued a press statement on their website regarding the matter.

NAFDAC ‘s Statement Addressing Killer Cough Syrup

“Although the product is not in NAFDAC database, importers, distributors, retailers, and consumers are advised to exercise caution and vigilance within the supply chain to avoid the importation, distribution, sale and use of the substandard (contaminated) syrups. All medical products must be obtained from authorised/licensed suppliers. The products’ authenticity and physical condition should be carefully checked.

“NAFDAC implores members of the public to desist from purchasing medicinal products from unauthorised sources such as roadside vendors and street hawkers as fake drugs are mostly smuggled into the country from neighbouring countries and distributed through such inappropriate channels.

“Anyone in possession of the above-mentioned product is advised to discontinue sale or use and submit stock to the nearest NAFDAC office. If you, or someone you know, have used these products or suffered any adverse reaction/event after use, you are advised to seek immediate medical advice from a qualified healthcare professional.”