Staff writer
The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) has warned the public of the circulation of counterfeit Goserelin Acetate (Zoladex) injections.
These are being distributed via illegal channels and in 10.8mg injections and is not approved in the country.
In a press statement on Wednesday, the MCAZ said:
“The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) has detected the circulation of unauthorised Goserelin Acetate (Zoladex) 10.8mg injections through unapproved channels.
“The product packaging contains Afrikaans language, which strongly suggests it was intended for
another market and has been illegally diverted into Zimbabwe.
“Our records show that this product was not formally imported into Zimbabwe. The MCAZ cannot therefore ascertain the safety, quality and efficacy of this product.”
Zoladex is used to treat prostate cancer in men and breast cancer in pre-menopausal women as a hormone therapy injection.
MCAZ further noted that the illegal product uses Afrikaans while the approved injections have English on the cartons.
Furthermore, the counterfeit injections are packaged in cartons that have a lesser quality compared to the approved ones have high quality packaging.
In addition, the approved injections have Zimbabwean registration details opposed to the South African details on the counterfeit injections.
MCAZ added that they are investigating the source of the illegal products and have instructed that these fake products be removed from shelves.
“The MCAZ is investigating the source of this product and advises healthcare providers, patients,and the public to be cautious when purchasing or using Goserelin Acetate (Zoladex) 10.8mg
injections.
“Only medicines registered and approved by MCAZ should be used to ensure safety, quality, and effectiveness in the treatment of all conditions.”
“The MCAZ instructs all approved wholesalers, licensed pharmacies, and public and private health facilities to immediately quarantine any units of the unapproved Zoladex injection described above which is in their possession.”
