NATIONAL NEWS - The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) has recalled two batches of Benylin Paediatric Syrup that contain high levels of diethylene glycol, a liquid commonly used in the commercial preparation of antifreeze, brake fluid, cigarettes, and some dyes.
The affected batch numbers are 329304 and 329303.
SAHPRA said it received a report from the Nigerian National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) on 10 April regarding the detection of high levels of diethylene glycol in these batches of Benylin Paediatric Syrup.
Following engagements with the South African manufacturer, Kenvue (formerly Johnson and Johnson), it was resolved that affected batches would immediately be recalled while an investigation is ongoing.
"The affected batches have been distributed to the following countries: South Africa, Eswatini, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania and Nigeria," said SAHPRA CEO, Dr Boitumelo Semete-Makokotlela.
Benylin Paediatric presents as a clear, bright red syrup having a raspberry odour and taste, packed in amber glass bottles containing 100 ml with a plastic measuring cup.
It is indicated for the relief of cough and its congestive symptoms and for the treatment of hay fever and other allergic conditions affecting the upper respiratory tract.
"SAHPRA wishes to inform the public not to panic as the matter is being handled with priority. Batch recalls are batch-specific and do not necessarily apply to other batches/similar products," said Semete-Makokotlela.
"The manufacturer is a SAHPRA-licenced manufacturer and complies with good manufacturing practices."
The public is reminded that the recall is limited to two batches and should not panic regarding the range of products bearing the same name, according to Semete-Makokotlela.
SAHPRA is alerting healthcare professionals and the public to discontinue the use of the two batches mentioned, remove them from their inventory and return them to their normal distribution channel(s) with immediate effect.
Classification of the recalls
The recall is classified as a Class 1, Type A recall, which is associated with a serious product quality concern that may have severe consequences. This is a country-wide recall.
The product is being recalled from hospitals, retail outlets, healthcare professionals, authorised prescribers and individual customers or patients.
What the public should know
Diethylene glycol is toxic to humans when consumed and can prove fatal.
Toxic effects can include abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, inability to pass urine, headaches, altered mental state, and acute kidney injury which may lead to death.
Members of the public who have consumed these two batches who experience any adverse reaction or witness it in children should consult their healthcare professional and report this using the Med Safety App or send an email to: adr@sahpra.org.za.
The recall is limited to batch numbers 329304 and 329303 of Benylin Paediatric Syrup.
“As a national regulatory authority, the recalling of medical products is a crucial measure to address safety concerns or quality issues so that we protect the health of the public.
"SAHPRA is recalling these two batches from the market due to reported high levels of diethylene glycol, with the potential to cause serious adverse events,” said Semete.
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