Medicines regulator National Drug Authority (NDA) has warned Ugandans against using a Chinese Contraceptive Pill that has hit the Ugandan black market, saying the pill is dangerous to women and could cause cancer.
A government agency that promotes and protects public health through effective regulation of human, animal medicines and healthcare products, NDA said the Chinese pill was poorly labelled, dangerous and not authorized for sale and use in Uganda.
“The National Drug Authority has noted with concern the sale of unauthorized Chinese Pill on black market used as a contraceptive pill. The Chinese Pill tablet packaging, labeling and patient information leaflet are in Chinese language except for the claimed ingredients- Levonorgestrol and Quinestrol,” said NDA Secretary David Nahamya.
“NDA informs the public that the Chinese Pill is NOT registered NOR authorized for sale and use in Uganda.”
Nahamya also listed the dangers of the Chinese pill, including cancer and adverse growth effects for babies born months and years after its usage.
“The pill was found to contain high doses of the hormones above the recommended dosage and the risks associated with use of this product include among others; prolonged bleeding, irregular menstrual periods, palpitations, possibility of developing blood clots and heart diseases, abnormally thickened endometrium, a predisposing factor for endometrial cancer and infertility,” continued Nahamya.
“Furthermore, when consumed, the hormones stay in the body for a long time and the adverse effects of the pill further manifest in babies that are born by mothers. The adverse effects include secondary [growth] characteristics like premature puberty.”
The Drug Authority has now warned Ugandans and drug dealers against using and stocking the condemned Chinese contraceptive pill.
“NDA strongly warns all drug outlets or persons with immediate effect to stop stocking and sale of the Chinese Pill. NDA post market surveillance and enforcement units are on full alert to undertake regulatory actions against this illegality,” noted the NDA boss.
“NDA advises the public to stop the consumption of this product whose safety and quality cannot be guaranteed. Family planning services should be sought from qualified health professionals. The public is expected to remain vigilant and report any suspected substandard and falsified medical products to NDA via Toll free line.”
Last month, NDA officials arrested a notorious drug dealer. (Read Story Here).
