NDA warns Ugandans about unauthorised Chinese (contraceptive) Pill on black market

Ugandans have been warned against selling or buying unauthorized Chinese Pill (contraceptive pill) that is being sold on the black market.

According to David Nahamya the Secretary National Drug Authority, the Chinese Pill tablet packaging, labelling and patient information leaflet are in the Chinese language except for the claimed ingredients Levonorgestrol and Quinestrol.

“NDA informs the public that the Chinese Pill is NOT registered NOR authorized for sale and use in Uganda. The pill was found to contain high doses of the hormones above the recommended dosage and the risks associated with the use of this product include among others; prolonged bleeding, irregular menstrual periods, palpitations, the possibility of developing blood clots and heart diseases, abnormally thickened endometrium, a predisposing factor for endometrial cancer and infertility,” Nahamya says in a statement.

When consumed, it is reported that the hormones stay in the body for a long time and the adverse effects of the pill further manifest in babies that are born by mothers. The adverse effects include secondary sexual characteristics like premature puberty.

He warned all drug outlets or persons to stop stocking and sale of the Chinese Pill with immediate effect. He added that NDA post-market surveillance and enforcement units are on full alert to undertake regulatory actions against this illegality.

“NDA advises the public to stop the consumption of this product whose safety and quality cannot be guaranteed. Family planning services should be sought from qualified health professionals. The public is expected to remain vigilant and report any suspected substandard and falsified medical products to NDA,” he noted.