Facts that you need to know about WHO global alert...

Facts that you need to know about WHO global alert on cough syrups linked to Gambian children deaths

The four syrups have been identified as

Promethazine Oral Solution BP
Kofexnalin Baby Cough Syrup,
MaKoff Baby Cough Syrup
MaGrip n Cold Syrup

Zim Now Writer

The World Health Organisation has issued a global alert saying the deaths of at least 66 children in The Gambia may be linked to contaminated cough syrups.

The alert is precautionary one.

Investigations are still under way to establish or dismiss a definitive link between the syrups and the deaths.

The Indian government has said all four syrups manufactured by Maiden Pharmaceuticals are only licensed “for export” and not for sale in India.

The cough syrups may be available in other African countries where distribution is not licensed, through illegal procurement channels.

PROMETHAZINE ORAL SOLUTION

When the human body is exposed to an allergen such as pollen, it produces a chemical called histamine. Histamines cause watery eyes, runny or blocked nose, sneezing, skin rashes, and itching among other symptoms. Promethazine, an anti-allergic, works by blocking the action of histamine. The medicine helps to calm down the nervous system by blocking substances in the body that may cause nausea and vomiting.

MAKOFF BABY

A combination of three formulations, this syrup is used to relieve dry cough. It works as a decongestant which narrows the small blood vessels, providing relief from congestion or stuffiness in the nose. The medicine contains a cough suppressant that relieves cough by reducing the activity of the cough centre in the brain.

MAGRIP AND COLD SYRUP

It is another anti-allergic medicine which includes paracetamol as well to reduce fever and relieve body pain. The drug works by blocking the release of certain chemical messengers in the brain which are responsible for causing fever and body aches.

KOFEXMALIN BABY COUGH SYRUP

A combination of four formulations, the medicine is used to relieve cough. It contains the medication pheniramine, which is anti-allergic, and helps in relieving symptoms such as watery eyes, runny nose and sneezing. It also includes ammonium chloride which is an expectorant and decreases the stickiness of airway secretions such as mucus, helping in their removal from the airways. It also includes sodium citrate which is a mucolytic and works by thinning and loosening mucus.