The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) has recalled a batch of YAZ PLUS contraceptive tablets due to a manufacturing mistake that could affect safety.
Richard Rukwata, MCAZ’s director-general, said the affected batch (WEW961J), made by Bayer in South Africa, had incorrect tablet arrangements.
Instead of 24 pink hormone tablets and 4 orange hormone-free tablets, some packs had 24 orange tablets and 4 pink tablets. Said Rukwata:
<blockquote>
This recall is a precautionary measure to protect public health. Non-compliance with product quality specifications can lead to a loss of efficacy and the affected contraceptive may not provide the intended protection. We urge all stakeholders to take immediate action.
</blockquote>
Rukwata urged wholesalers, pharmacies, clinics, and hospitals to isolate the affected batch and work closely with Bayer and local distributors.
He also advised consumers using the contraceptive to check the batch number on their packs. He said:
<blockquote>
If you find batch WEW961J, stop using it immediately, return it to your pharmacist, and consult a healthcare professional for alternatives.
</blockquote>
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The MCAZ in Zimbabwe recalled YAZ PLUS contraceptive tablets because some packs had the wrong tablets. Instead of pink and orange tablets in the right order, some packs had them mixed up. This mistake could make the contraceptive less effective. The director-general of MCAZ, Richard Rukwata, asked everyone who has this batch (WEW961J) to stop using it, return it, and talk to a healthcare professional. Pharmacies and clinics were also told to isolate this batch and work with the company to fix the problem. The recall is to protect people's health.

Batch Of Family Planning Pills Recalled In Zimbabwe Due Incorrect Tablet Arrangement

The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) recently conducted an operation to crack down on the illegal sale of unregistered medicines in Harare’s central business district.
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In a statement, the MCAZ said its inspectors uncovered several vendors selling medicines without the required licenses and approvals. MCAZ said:
<blockquote>
MCAZ has recently confiscated unregistered medicines being sold illegally in Harare CBD. This is a reminder that selling medicines (registered or unregistered) without a license is not only illegal but also poses serious risks to public health.
This confiscation is part of MCAZ’s ongoing enforcement activities to safeguard public health. Together, we can ensure that only safe, effective, and good quality medicines are available in Zimbabwe.
MCAZ is committed to enforcing regulations to protect the public from unsafe medicines. The Authority urge everyone to ensure they purchase medicines only from licensed persons or premises.
This guarantees the safety, quality, and efficacy of the medicines you use.
</blockquote>
MCAZ is the national regulatory body regulating medicines, medical devices, and cosmetics in Zimbabwe.
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It was established in 1997 under the Medicines and Allied Substances Control Act, with the mandate to regulate the manufacture, importation, sale, and distribution of medicines and allied substances in Zimbabwe.
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The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) in Harare CBD seized illegal medicines being sold without licenses. MCAZ wants people to only buy medicines from licensed places to be safe. The authority was created in 1997 to regulate medicines and keep people safe. Selling unregistered medicines is not safe and against the law. MCAZ is working to make sure only safe and good quality medicines are available in Zimbabwe.

Medicines Control Authority Seizes Unregistered Medicines In Harare CBD

The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) has published a circular to outline the regulatory position and pro-active measures to be taken by pharmaceutical manufacturers to ensure that all oral liquid formulations registered with MCAZ are not contaminated with Diethylene Glycol (DEG) And Ethylene Glycol (EG).
The circular is dated 24 April 2024 and was addressed to all pharmaceutical manufacturers by MCAZ Director General Richard Tendai Rukwata. It reads:
<blockquote>
PREVENTION OF DIETHYLENE GLYCOL (DEG) AND ETHYLENE GLYCOL (EG) CONTAMINATION IN PHARMACEUTICALS
The Authority has noted with concern the recurring cases of oral liquid formulations that are contaminated with Diethylene Glycol (DEG) and Ethylene Glycol (EG).
Diethylene Glycol (DEG) and Ethylene Glycol (EG) are toxic substances that can be fatal when taken in small amounts.
DEG and EG in liquid dosage forms such as cough, allergy, analgesic, and antiemetic syrups will result in toxicity and fatalities once they exceed concentrations of 0.10%.
Since 2022 to date, there have been reports of DEG and EG poisoning cases due to consumption of contaminated medicines in several parts of the world, resulting in more than three hundred deaths of which most of these fatalities were children.
Findings from investigations by the World Health Organisation (WHO) indicated that the root causes of DEG and EG contamination of medicinal products were:
<ul>
<li>A lack of, or insufficient Quality Control (QC) testing of starting materials.</li>
<li>Use of industrial-grade starting materials.</li>
<li>Falsification of records, namely, certificates of analysis (COAS) and reliance on supplier COAS by finished pharmaceutical product (FPP) manufacturers.</li>
<li>Supply chain complexity – the chain of custody or distribution history of high-risk ingredients was not readily known or apparent from the COA.</li>
</ul>
Regarding DEG and EG contamination, starting materials of concern which are considered as high-risk starting materials for pharmaceutical formulations are: Glycerine (Glycerol), Propylene Glycol, Maltitol Solution, Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate. Sorbitol Solution, and other pharmaceutical ingredients whose synthesis or degradation might result in the generation of DEG and EG.
Considering the above, pharmaceutical manufacturers making use of high-risk starting materials should conduct rigorous testing of such materials as per current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) requirements and in particular test for DEG and EG contamination as described in the respective pharmacopeial monographs of cach starting material.
The purpose of this circular is to outline the regulatory position and proactive measures to be taken by pharmaceutical manufacturers to ensure that all oral liquid formulations registered with MCAZ are not contaminated with DEG or EG.
The Authority hereby instructs all finished pharmaceutical product (FPP) manufacturers of oral liquid formulations registered in Zimbabwe which could potentially be contaminated with DEG and EG to implement the following preventative measures with immediate effect:
<ol>
<li>Upon receipt of raw materials from suppliers, FPP manufacturers must conduct adequate testing of all containers of all lots of high-risk starting materials to be used in pharmaceutical formulations. Testing for DEG and EG contamination in the high-risk materials should be done in accordance with respective pharmacopeial monographs. Skip-lot testing of these high-risk materials will not be acceptable. Proof of testing will be verified during routine cGMP audits.</li>
<li>FPP manufacturers making use of high-risk starting materials should not rely on supplier COAS for DEG and EG test results.</li>
<li>In cases where the FPP manufacturer outsources DEG and EG testing, copies of raw data should accompany the COA from the contract laboratory.</li>
<li>Finished product testing for DEG and EG as described in the International Pharmacopeia (currently stated in the WHO Working Document QAS/23.922/rev3) should be done on formulations containing high-risk starting materials.</li>
<li>FPP manufacturers should only make use of pharmaceutical grade starting materials. The use of non-pharmaceutical grades e.g. industrial grade will not be acceptable.</li>
<li>Vendors and/or manufacturers of high-risk starting materials should be adequately qualified. FPP manufacturers should be able to trace the supply chain and custody of starting materials right from the starting material manufacturer to their warehouse.</li>
<li>FPP manufacturers are required to test for DEG and EG in retention samples of oral liquid formulations whose batches are currently on the market, if these had been released without testing for DEG and EG.</li>
</ol>
</blockquote>
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MCAZ Moves To Prevent DEG And EG Contamination In Pharmaceuticals

The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) has advised members of the public against using Benylin Paediatric 100ml Syrup, batch numbers 329303 and 329304 manufactured by Johnson and Johnson, South Africa.
This comes after the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration (NAFDAC) of Nigeria raised alarm over the medicine after laboratory analysis showed that it contains unacceptably high levels of Diethylene glycol, a contaminant which is toxic for humans when consumed.
In a statement issued this Monday, April 15, MCAZ Director–General Richard Rukwata said those who may have accessed the medicine should immediately desist from administering it to children. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) would like to inform all stakeholders of a critical communication received from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration (NAFDAC) of Nigeria regarding the recall of Benylin Paediatric 100ml Syrup, batch number 329304, manufactured by Johnson and Johnson, South Africa. 
According to NAFDAC, recent laboratory analysis has revealed unacceptably high levels of Diethylene glycol in this formulation. Diethylene glycol is a contaminant which is toxic for humans when consumed.
Toxic effects can include abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, inability to pass urine, headache, altered mental state, and acute kidney injury, potentially leading to death.
Additionally, the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) and the manufacturer identified an additional batch that is affected bringing the affected batches to two; 329303 and 329304.
While the Authority confirms that this product was registered in 2023 for use in Zimbabwe, our import database does not show a record of the importation of this product and more specifically these two batches.
However, there is a concern that through illegal means, the aforementioned batches of Benylin Paediatric Syrup may find their way into the local market. As a precautionary measure, the Authority is issuing a recall notice for this product.
In the unlikely event that members of the public are in possession of and/or come across this product, please notify the Authority and/or healthcare provider immediately and desist from administering them to children.
The cooperation of all stakeholders is essential in ensuring the right of citizens to safe and good quality medicines is protected.
Meanwhile, the Authority will intensify its market surveillance activities through strict premises inspections and public awareness to ensure that these products are not circulated.
The mandate of the MCAZ is to protect public health by ensuring that all medicines and medical devices on the market are safe, effective, and of good quality and will continue to monitor the situation in line with the WHO guidelines.
The Authority also urges members of the public to access medicines from licenced persons and premises for easier monitoring.
The Authority and law enforcement agencies continue to work together to eradicate any substandard and falsified health products.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Benylin Paediatric Cough Syrup Recalled In Zimbabwe, Several African Countries

The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) has seized unregistered skin-lightening creams, other body-altering products, expired drugs, and other illicit medicinal products that were being sold illegally in the Chikangwe area in Karoi, Mashonaland West Province.
In a statement, MCAZ said medicines were being sold from flea market tables, and car boot sales among other unauthorized places. It said:
<blockquote>
As part of the Authority’s continued enforcement activities aimed at identified hotspots where individuals involved in the illegal distribution of unregistered medicines, expired drugs, and other illicit medicinal products conduct their business, a blitz was conducted in the Chikangwe area in Karoi, Mashonaland West Province.
The raid led to the discovery of unregistered, expired, and even registered medicines being sold unlawfully. Additionally, skin-lightening creams and other body-altering products were recovered.
These medicines were being sold from flea market tables and car boot sales among other unauthorized places. The MCAZ remains committed to ensuring the safety and integrity of pharmaceutical products available to the public.
</blockquote>
In February this year, MCAZ said it successfully conducted raids in the Gazebo area of Caledonia, Harare, with support from the Zimbabwe Republic Police’s (ZRP) Drugs and Narcotics Division.
MCAZ said that during the raid, six unlicensed shops were inspected, leading to the discovery of unregistered medicines, expired drugs, and even registered medicines being sold unlawfully.
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MCAZ Seizes Unregistered Medicines, Expired Drugs In Karoi

Herbalists in Bulawayo have continued to defy a directive by the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) to stop selling their products two weeks ago.
As reported by the <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/herbalists-defy-mcaz-ban-and-continue-selling-potions/">Chronicle</a>, the herbalists claim their remedies treat ailments ranging from hypertension to supernatural afflictions.
MCAZ spokesperson Anderson Kaiyo said the banned herbs are not regulated and may pose serious health risks to the public.
He warned that those who defy the ban risk a heavy fine or imprisonment.
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said police will raid and arrest people who sell herbs and medicines illegally. Said Asst Comm Nyathi:
<blockquote>
As the police, we conduct joint operations with the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe who guide us especially when there are issues of concern.
Herbalists have to be regulated or they risk being raided by the police.
</blockquote>
A herbalist identified as Grace, who has been processing herbals for 20 years told the Chronicle that their products are natural, safe and effective. She said:
<blockquote>
I started manufacturing herbals such as aphrodisiac root (muremberembe) which is crushed and mixed with hot water – cleaning the system.
Mutanda ngozi is another herb for protection from witchcraft and sorcery, the roots of the plant is protective properties also used to cure wounds and chronic diseases.
The use of traditional medicines has been associated with witchcraft and traditional health practitioners have been labelled as witch-doctors.
This negative stereotype of the traditional health system dates back to colonial times when European missionaries introduced the Western health care system.
People were no longer confident in their traditional healthcare system because of the stigma that had been attached to its use.
I also sell tamarind for the reduction of high blood pressure, diarrhoea, and constipation and wound healing.
</blockquote>
Grace said she does not fear the MCAZ because she knows that her herbals are harmless and helpful.
David Mlilo, a traditional healer said it is difficult to regulate herbalists as most of them are operating individually. He said:
<blockquote>
I noticed that there is a collective decision in the usage of herbs as traditional is guided by idlozi lakibo, however, traditional leaders should accept that they cannot treat all diseases for instance, I have adopted a medical machine to check for BP and diabetes.
Some people have died due to some traditional healers claiming to treat diseases like AIDS.
</blockquote>
MCAZ recently warned the public against advertising medicines on social media platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, and X (formerly Twitter).
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Herbalists Defy Medicines Control Authority

The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) said it successfully conducted raids in the Gazebo area of Caledonia, Harare, with support from the Zimbabwe Republic Police’s (ZRP) Drugs and Narcotics Division.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, 28 February, MCAZ said the operation targeted unlicensed shops suspected of dealing in medicines and other pharmaceutical products.
The authority said that during the raid, six unlicensed shops were inspected, leading to the discovery of unregistered medicines, expired drugs, and even registered medicines being sold unlawfully.
It said all the shops were manned by unlicensed individuals.
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Medicines Control Authority Raids Unlicensed Pharmacies

The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) has expressed concern about the increased advertising of medicines, especially on social media platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, and X (formerly Twitter) among others.
In a statement, MCAZ said the law prohibits members of the public from advertising medicines without written approval from the MCAZ.
The authority urged stakeholders to report any violation of the law regarding the advertising of medicines. MCAZ said:
<blockquote>
The advertisement of medicines is governed by section(s) 65(1)(b) and 65(3) of the Medicines and Allied Substances Control (General) Regulations, 1991, (S.I. 150 of 1991).
An advertisement according to the Medicines and Allied Substances Control Act (Chapter 15:03) in relation to any medicine, means any written, pictorial, visual, or other descriptive matter or verbal statement or reference—
(a) appearing in any newspaper or other publication; or (b) appearing on any television or cinematograph film; or 
(c) distributed to members of the public; or (d) brought to the notice of members of the public in any manner whatsoever; which is intended to promote the sale of that medicine;
Section 65(1)(b) states that “No person shall advertise any other medicine without the approval of the Authority in writing”
Section 65(3) states that “No person shall advertise any medicine to members of the public in terms calculated to lead to its use for the treatment of human beings for any of the conditions set out in the Seventh Schedule”
Any person who contravenes the provisions of these regulations, other than a provision for the contravention of which a penalty is provided by subsection (3) of section 38 or subsection (2a) of section 39 of the Act, shall be guilty of an offence and liable to a fine not exceeding level seven or to imprisonment for a period not exceeding six months or to both such fine and such imprisonment.
The Authority works with the Zimbabwe Republic Police and will take necessary measures including prosecution should anyone contravenes these provisions.
MCAZ urges members of the public to desist from advertising medicines without written approval from the MCAZ. The Authority encourages stakeholders to report such cases to the MCAZ.
</blockquote>
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"Advertising Medicines Without Written Approval From MCAZ A Criminal Offence"

The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) and CID Drugs and Narcotics arrested a suspected drug peddler in Harare on Wednesday, 03 October.
In a statement, MCAZ Director-General, Richard Tendayi Rukwata, said the suspect was found in possession of 450 bottles of BronCleer, an illegal cough syrup.
The raid was conducted at Old Trafford flats located at 13 Edmond Avenue, Belvedere, Harare. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
After an anonymous tipoff, the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) has successfully confiscated a total of 450 Bottles of illegal cough syrups (BronCleer and Adco-Salterpyn) during a raid conducted at Old Trafford flats located at 13 Edmond Avenue, Belvedere, Harare yesterday.
This significant seizure is part of the Authority’s ongoing efforts to combat drug and substance abuse as well as the illegal distribution and misuse of pharmaceutical products within the country.
During the operation, MCAZ Inspectors working with Officers from the CID Drugs and Narcotics discovered and seized 350 bottles of BronCleer cough syrup and 100 bottles of Adco-Salterpyn syrup.
The suspect present at the scene is currently cooperating with law enforcement agencies to assist with their investigations into this matter.
BronCleer and Adco-Salterpyn Syrup are opioid-containing cough syrups that are not registered in Zimbabwe.
Opioids are considered Dangerous Drugs and these cough syrups are being abused by opioid drug addicts.
Its misuse poses serious health risks and can lead to various complications if not used under proper medical supervision.
The MCAZ remains committed to safeguarding public health by ensuring that only authorized and regulated medicines are available on the market.
The Authority will continue to work closely with law enforcement agencies to identify and apprehend individuals involved in the illicit trade of such substances.
MCAZ urges members of the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to drug and substance abuse and the distribution or sale of unregulated pharmaceutical products.
Your cooperation is vital in our collective efforts to protect public health and safety. For further information or inquiries, please contact the Authority.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

MCAZ Seize 450 Illegal Cough Syrup Bottles From Belvedere Flat

The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) has delisted 10 local pharmaceutical dealers for allegedly promoting the abuse of Histalix cough syrup by youths.
In a statement on Monday, MCAZ announced it had revoked six operating permits for wholesale dealers and licences for four pharmacists.
Histalix is a locally-produced cough mixture containing codeine, an opioid medicine used for the short-term relief of mild to moderate pain.
MCAZ Histalix was being illegally sold in such places as Mbare and Chitungwiza while others were exporting it to Zambia and Mozambique.
The revocation of permits and cancellation of licences, which runs up to March 2025, is part of efforts to fight drug and substance abuse among youths.
In a statement, MCAZ director-general Richard Rukwata said they are working to get unregistered drug manufacturers and counterfeit drugs off the streets.
MCAZ has classified Histalix cough syrup as a prescription-only drug.
In a speech read on his behalf by MCAZ’s head Licensing and Enforcement divisions Caroline Dandira-Samatanga, Rukwata said:
<blockquote>
We aim to prevent the circulation of counterfeit drugs and unregistered substances that can contribute to drug abuse.
In this regard, the authority, has revoked six permits for wholesale dealers and cancelled four persons licences who were promoting abuse of Histalix, a locally-produced cough mixture containing codeine, by illegally selling it at Mbare and places likes Chitungwiza and others were exporting to countries like Zambia and Mozambique.
Drug abuse is a complex issue that affects individuals, families, and communities across Zimbabwe.
</blockquote>
Rukwata said MCAZ has noted that there is an influx of over-the-counter medicine that is being smuggled into the country. He said:
<blockquote>
The authority, however, notes with concern that over-the-counter medicines from other countries are continuously being imported illegally.
MCAZ is working with various stakeholders, including the Police, CID Drugs, National Prosecuting Authority, Zimra and port health officials to educate them on the entry of these drugs through ports of entry or illegal channels.
The authority holds training with these stakeholders on a regular basis and has had five trainings in various provinces this year in Masvingo, Beitbridge, Zvishavane, Victoria Falls and Mutare.
Police regularly confiscate some of these cough syrups, and we assist them in writing statements that have penalties.
</blockquote>
Adept, Bestpharm, Action 24 Medical Supplies and Murity Pharmaceuticals had their permits revoked while the firms’ directors and supervisors were banned from operating.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Medicines Control Authority Revokes Permits For Dealers Promoting Abuse Of Cough Syrup

The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) has ordered healthcare professionals to advise patients to stop taking pholcodine-containing medicines.
Pholcodine is an opioid medicine that is used in adults and children for the treatment of non-productive (dry) cough and, in combination with other active substances, for the treatment of symptoms of cold and flu.
In Zimbabwe, pholcodine-containing products are marketed under the brand names Pholtex Plus and Pholtex Forte with the registration numbers 2018/22.2.5/5734 and 99/22.2.1/3624 respectively.
In a recent statement, MCAZ director general Richard Rukwata said:
<blockquote>
MCAZ would like to advise all stakeholders of a significant safety issue with pholcodine-containing medicines.
Available data indicate that the use of pholcodine in the 12 months before general anesthesia with neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBA) such as suxamethonium, and atracurium is a risk factor for developing an anaphylactic reaction upon administration of the NMBA.
The Authority would like to draw the attention of all licensed pharmaceutical wholesalers, pharmacies, public and private clinics, and hospitals that they must quarantine the stated products.
… due to the seriousness of the safety risk, all pholcodine-containing products are being withdrawn from the Zimbabwean market.
Health care professionals, advise patients to stop taking pholcodine-containing medicines and consider appropriate alternatives to treat their symptoms.
Check whether patients scheduled to undergo general anesthesia with NMBAs have used pholcodine in the previous 12 months and remain aware of the risk of anaphylactic reactions in those patients.
</blockquote>
The UK government says there is already a known link between pholcodine and an increased risk of the very rare event of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to muscle relaxants (neuromuscular blocking agents) that are used during general anaesthesia in surgery.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe Bans Use Of Cough Medicine Containing Pholcodine

The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) has expressed concern over the increased advertising of medicines on social media platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, and Twitter saying it is in violation of the law.
MCAZ said an advertisement according to the Medicines and Allied Substances Control Act (Chapter 15:03) in relation to any medicine, means any written, pictorial, visual, or other descriptive matter or verbal statement or reference.
In a statement, MCAZ said section 65(1)(b) states that no person shall advertise any other medicine without the approval of the authority in writing. It added:
<blockquote>
Any person who contravenes the provisions of these regulations, other than a provision for the contravention of which a penalty is provided by subsection (3) of section 38 or subsection (2a) of section 39 of the Act, shall be guilty of an offence and liable to a fine not exceeding level seven or to imprisonment for a period not exceeding six months or to both such fine and such imprisonment.
</blockquote>
MCAZ said it will work with the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) to take necessary measures including prosecution, against those illegally advertising medicines on social media.

Advertising Of Medicines On Social Media Worries Medicines Control Authority

Zimbabwe has become the first African country to approve the use of long-acting injectable, Cabotegravir (CAB-LA), a pre-exposure prophylaxis (Prep) dose for HIV prevention.
The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) on Monday announced the approval of the use of the drug.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), “CAB-LA may be offered to people at substantial risk of HIV acquisition as part of comprehensive HIV prevention approaches”.
CAB-LA injections are to be taken every two months and studies have shown that they are highly effective in reducing the risk of HIV acquisition among homosexual men, transgender, and cisgender women.
Community Working Group on Health (CWGH) executive director Itai Rusike applauded the move to approve the use of the drug in Zimbabwe. He said:
<blockquote>
Prep dramatically reduces the risk of HIV acquisition for women as well as men.
We are aware that for more than a decade, WHO has recommended that pregnant and breastfeeding women at risk of HIV should be offered Prep.
The people of Zimbabwe should embrace this new development in order to reduce the risk of HIV infection.
</blockquote>
Development Agenda for Girls and Women in Africa Network representative Nyasha Sithole said “this will contribute to our basket of HIV prevention tools that work for us as girls and women in Zimbabwe”. | <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200002248/zim-pilots-new-hiv-drug">NewsDay</a>

Zimbabwe Becomes First African Country To Approve Use Of New HIV Drug

The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) has said Superlife Total Care (STC30) has not been registered with the Authority and is therefore illegal.
STC30 is herbal medicine trending on social media and its promoters claim that it cures almost every other disease and condition.
In a statement, MCAZ Acting Director General Richard Rukwata said STC 30 has not been approved for sale in Zimbabwe and members of the public should avoid buying the product.
The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe is the regulator mandated to safeguard the safety of public and animal health. Said Rukwata:
<blockquote>
Superlife Total Care (STC30) and many similar products with their numerous medicinal and health claims make them registrable products.
However, STC30 is currently not registered and not approved for sale in Zimbabwe.
As the Authority we have noted the continued advertising and marketing of STC30 products, especially on social media.
We urge members of the public to desist from buying such products which have not gone through any clinical trials and therefore their safety and efficacy have not been proven. Members of the public are encouraged to buy medicines from registered premises and persons. These lists can be found on the online register found on our <a href="https://onlineservices.mcaz.co.zw/onlineregisterformPersonsRegister.aspx">website</a>.
</blockquote>
Rukwata warned that those marketing and distributing STC30 are breaking the law. He said:
<blockquote>
The continued marketing and advertising of such unregistered “medicinal” products is not only an act of criminality but also puts the lives of the citizens at risk.
As the Authority responsible for protecting public and animal health, MCAZ enforces adherence to standards by manufacturers and distributors and will exercise its statutory mandate against the perpetrators of these criminal acts.
</blockquote>
|<a href="https://healthtimes.co.zw/2022/09/16/herbal-product-stc-30-illegal-in-zimbabwe-mcaz/"> Health Times</a>

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