The National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has warned the general public about the cough syrup, Benylin Pediatrics Syrup manufactured by Johnson & Johnson with batch number 329304 and manufactured in May 2021 due to expire this month, April 2024. The cough syrup was found to contain unacceptably high level of Diethylene glycol and caused acute oral toxicity in laboratory animals. In an effort to halt its circulation, the agency has recalled the product, which is a vital method of managing risks associated with an unhealthy/faulty product.
According to a statement published on NAFDAC’s website, “Benylin Pediatric syrup is indicated for the relief of cough and congestive symptoms and for the treatment of hay fever and other allergic conditions in children aged 2 to 12 years.
“Diethylene glycol is toxic to humans when consumed and can prove fatal. Toxic effects can include abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, inability to pass urine, headache, altered mental state and acute kidney injury which may lead to death.”
The Agency urged anyone in possession of the affected product to discontinue its sale or use and should be submitted to the nearest NAFDAC office.
NAFDAC also stated, “Healthcare professionals and consumers are advised to report any suspicion of substandard and falsified medicines to the nearest NAFDAC office, NAFDAC on 0800-162-3322 or via email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
“Similarly, healthcare professionals and patients are also encouraged to report adverse events or side effects related to the use of the medicinal product to the nearest NAFDAC office or through the use of the e-reporting platforms available on the NAFDAC website www.nafdac.gov.ng or via the Med-safety application available for download on android and IOS stores or via e-mail on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..”
