The National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has recalled the popular cough syrup, Benylin Paediatric, over health concerns.
NAFDAC revealed in a statement published on their website, that laboratory tests found an alarming level of Diethylene glycol in the cough syrup, which poses acute oral toxicity risks, especially in children aged 2 to 12 years.
This toxic substance, if ingested, can lead to severe health issues such as abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, altered mental state, and even acute kidney injury, potentially resulting in death, the Agency explained.
The affected product, with batch number 329304, is manufactured by Johnson & Johnson in Cape Town, South Africa, and has an expiry date of April 2024.
NAFDAC has cautioned importers, distributors, retailers, and consumers to be vigilant and avoid the sale or use of such contaminated products.
The Agency has called for the immediate discontinuation of the product’s sale or use in the country.
Anyone observing adverse reactions after using the product is advised to seek immediate medical attention from qualified healthcare professionals.
Read NAFDAC’s full statement here: