MFDA Bans Alergo Brand Cetirizine over Chemical Concerns

The Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) has prohibited the sale and usage of Alergo Oral Liquid 5mg/5ml Cetirizine, specifically batch number B220.

MFDA 🚨 (got this from Drs Viber group)

Even if you have this at 🏠 Do not use this until further notice from MFDA

Drs pls do not select it from the lise. There is tablet also with similar spelling. @AasandhaLtd ; pls remove it from your list until further notice @MoHmv pic.twitter.com/upVthDAKzW

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— Ahmed Faisal (@Faisalnaifaru) November 7, 2023

This action was prompted by the MFDA’s discovery of a concerning chemical presence in the Alergo Oral Liquid 5mg/ml.

The regulatory body acted in response to alerts issued by the World Health Organisation (WHO) regarding the potential existence of chemicals, notably diethylene glycol (DEG) and ethylene glycol (EG), in liquid cough, cold, and flu medicines produced globally since October of the previous year.

To further address this concern, the Maldives has initiated random sampling within the local market. However, the country currently lacks the necessary confirmatory testing facilities for identifying these chemical substances. As a result, any samples detected with the said chemical presence will necessitate overseas laboratory testing.

Up to this point in the year, the MFDA has subjected 10 samples from the market to screening procedures aimed at detecting the presence of the chemical.

The MFDA’s response includes an immediate prohibition on the import, sale, and usage of the Alergo brand Cetirizine liquid. This suspension will remain in effect until the test results are accessible and the drug’s safety is fully confirmed.