Rwanda recalls Kenyan drug over safety concerns

Health authorities in Rwanda have recalled batches of antifungal tablets made in Kenya over safety concerns.

In a statement, the Rwanda Food and Drugs Authority (RFDA) instructed importers to return all batches of 200mg Fluconazole tablets manufactured by Univeral Corporation, a Kenyan company.

It also ordered all retailers and health facilities to stop the distribution of the drugs and return them to suppliers.

This followed an earlier notification from the authority, which alerted the Kenyan manufacturer of discolouration in the tablets.

According to RFDA, four bulk batches of pink Fluconazole 200mg tablets imported into the country had a white discolouration after a short shelf life.

The agency said that some of the discoloured tablet batches had entered into the Rwandan market.

Health officials in Rwanda say they will investigate to ascertain if the drugs have had any adverse effects on consumers.

Kenyan authorities are yet to say whether the drug, used to treat fungal or yeast infections, will also be recalled from the local market.