A batch of Benylin Paediatric Syrup contained high levels of diethylene glycol, leading to an immediate recall of affected batches while an investigation is ongoing.
The recall follows a recent discovery by the Nigerian National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) on 10 April 10 2024. This has led to public inquiries about the product’s safety and its future use.
What the public should know
According to the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA), 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.
SAHPRA, in collaboration with Kenvue, have identified the affected batch numbers as 329304 and 329303. These affected batches have been distributed to the following countries: South Africa, Eswatini, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania and Nigeria.
“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,” indicates SAHPRA CEO, Dr Boitumelo Semete-Makokotlela.
What could go wrong?
According to Dr Dineo Sefoloko of #Keready Clinics based in KwaZulu-Natal, diethylene glycol is a type of chemical used in various products, such as certain types of paint, cosmetics, brake fluid, and anti-freeze. She emphasises that it’s not something you want to swallow, as diethylene glycol can be highly toxic if it ends up in medicines.
“It can cause all sorts of harm, especially to the kidneys and nervous system,” she says.
Sefoloko further explains that diethylene glycol can affect the nervous system, leading to symptoms like headaches, fatigue, and even seizures in severe cases.
“In serious cases, consumption of diethylene glycol can be fatal.”
Dr Dineo Sefoloko
She also points out that diethylene glycol can lead to metabolic acidosis, disrupting normal bodily functions. While the kidneys and nervous system are at greater risk, the liver can also be affected.
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Who is at risk?
Young children, people with weaker immune systems, and those battling other sicknesses are most at risk, because their bodies aren’t always ready to fight back hard. But generally, nobody should be exposed to it, Sefoloko explains.
“As mentioned, diethylene glycol can mess with your kidneys, your heart, and even your nervous system. Since children are still growing, they may be hit harder.”
You should look out for the following symptoms:
- Feeling lightheaded or dizzy
- Any unusual rash
- Trouble breathing
- Swelling up in places, especially your face, lips, or throat
- Nausea or throwing up
- Stomach aches
- Diarrhoea
- Confusion
- Drowsiness
- Unconsciousness
If your child is showing any these symptoms, it is best to consult a doctor immediately.
Be safe
If you have already bought Benylin, Sefoloko advises that you check the number on the bottle, and if it matches the number provided by SAHPRA, then it’s a no-no.
“Most places should take it back and sort you out – they might give you a refund or a safe replacement.”
She further recommends that if you’ve been taking it and feeling a bit weird or not right, seeing a healthcare professional is a good idea.
Fighting flu
If your child is fighting flu, there are some other ways to keep them healthy. Here are some tips for when your child is fighting a flu:
- Make sure your child gets plenty of rest. Sleep is important for their body to recover.
- Keep them well-hydrated. Encourage them to drink water, warm drinks, and clear fluids to stay hydrated.
- Use a humidifier or create a steamy environment by taking them into a warm bathroom with the shower running. This can help relieve congestion and coughing.
- Encourage them to gargle with warm salt water to soothe a sore throat, if they are old enough to do so safely.
- Offer them soothing liquids like warm herbal teas or clear soups to help soothe their throat and relieve congestion.
- Use saline nasal drops or sprays to help clear their nasal passages and relieve congestion.
- Ensure they have a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables to support their immune system.
- Keep their environment clean and focus on proper hand hygiene to prevent the spread of the cold to others.
ALSO READ: Infant nutrition: Take care of what you feed tiny tummies
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