The Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) has lifted the quarantine order on Mefnac Oral Suspension (Mefenamic Acid 50mg/5ml) after months of investigation into safety concerns.
PPB stated that the decision followed extensive quality control tests, which confirmed the product meets all required health and safety standards.
"The Pharmacy and Poisons Board has lifted the quarantine order issued on 11th December 2024 through a public alert for Mefnac Oral Suspension (Mefenamic Acid 50mg/5ml) manufactured by Elfrose Chemical Industries Pvt Limited, Pakistan," read part of the statement.
The board clarified that the initial quarantine, imposed on December 11, 2024, was a precautionary measure amid concerns of potential contamination.
Laboratory analysis has confirmed that the drug is safe for distribution and use. The tests primarily focused on detecting the presence of Diethylene Glycol (DEG) and Ethylene Glycol (EG), two compounds known to cause severe health complications if consumed in large quantities.
Mefnac Oral Suspension (Mefenamic Acid 50mg/5ml) is an anti-inflammatory drug commonly used to relieve mild to moderate pain, including headaches and toothaches.
Additionally, some women use Mefenamic Acid to manage severe menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea). The drug works by reducing the body's production of prostaglandins, hormones responsible for pain, inflammation, and fever.
After the PPB's latest announcement, Mefenamic Acid is set to hit medical facilities once again, with the board saying licensed pharmacies will be able to access the drug.
Kenyans have been urged to remain vigilant against substandard medicine that may enter the market following the directive.
One key indicator of poor-quality drugs, such as Mefenamic Acid, is the occurrence of unexpected adverse reactions.
The Pharmacy and Poisons Board has advised patients to report any such incidents directly to them.
In December, the PPB also flagged Floracil 1000 (Fluorouracil 1000mg/2ml injection), a drug used in cancer treatment. The regulatory body warned that the product, sourced from an Indian pharmaceutical company, was deemed substandard and unsafe for human use.
