National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC), has recalled a batch of a cough syrup brand manufactured by Johnson & Johnson, following toxicity findings.
The product named Benylin Paediatrics Syrup was found to be contaminated with an unacceptably high level of diethylene glycol, a toxic substance that can lead to acute kidney injury and even death, the agency said.
High levels of diethylene glycol and/or a related chemical called ethylene glycol have previously been implicated in a recent wave of poisoning cases involving India-made cough syrups.
The affected Benylin Paediatrics Syrup batch, manufactured by Johnson & Johnson in South Africa, was due to expire in April NAFDAC noted.
The regulator called for an immediate end to its sales or use and urged the public to return the stock to the nearest NAFDAC office.
Benylin Paediatric syrup is indicated for children aged 2 to 12 years to treat conditions such as coughs and allergic conditions, including hay fever.
