General News of Monday, 5 February 2007

Source: GNA

FDB warns public against three drugs

Accra, Feb. 5, GNA - The Food and Drugs Board (FDB) on Monday warned the public against the use of three drugs saying it could not guarantee their safety, efficacy and quality.

A statement signed by Mr Emmanuel Agyarko, Chief Executive of FDB, identified the drugs as Katchepo, Tankas and Alabama.

It said Katchepo, a product initially purported to be originating from the Volta Region, was claimed to contain potassium iodate; rainwater; colorants and was used to treat stomach ache and sores in humans and Newcastle diseases in poultry.

Tankas is claimed to contain coconut oil and liquid ammonia and used to treat common cold; headache; foot rot; skin rashes; dislocation and sprains in humans while Alabama is claimed to contain camphor, colorants and is used to treat whitlow in humans.

"The general public is being informed that the safety, efficacy and quality of the products are unknown and cannot be guaranteed by the Board," it said.

It said while measures are being taken to control the manufacture, distribution and use of these products, consumers are being cautioned against the use of such products as this could lead to serious adverse reactions.