Online Reporter
Joshua Muswere
THE Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) has issued a public alert following the detection of unauthorised Goserelin Acetate (Zoladex) injections currently circulating on the local market.
According to the authority, the product is being distributed through illegal supply channels and was not approved for use in Zimbabwe.
Zoladex (goserelin) is a hormone therapy injection used to treat prostate cancer in men and breast cancer in pre-menopausal women by reducing sex hormone levels. It also treats endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and thins the womb lining before surgery.
In a press statement, MCAZ warned that the injection was originally intended for a market outside Zimbabwe.
“The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) has detected the circulation of unauthorized Goserelin Acetate (Zoladex) 10.8mg injections through unapproved channels,” reads the statement.
“The product packaging contains Afrikaans language, which strongly suggests that it was intended for another market and has been illegally diverted to Zimbabwe.”
MCAZ said it is investigating the source of the unauthorised medicine while working to contain its circulation amid growing concerns over unlicensed medicinal products on the market.
“The MCAZ is investigating the source of this product and advises healthcare providers and the public to be cautious when purchasing Goserelin Acetate (Zoladex) 10.8 mg injection.”
“Only medicines registered and approved by the MCAZ should be used to ensure safety, quality and effectiveness in the treatment of all conditions,” further lamented the MCAZ Director General Mr Richard Tendayi Rukwata.
The authority has instructed all approved wholesalers, licensed pharmacies, and public and private health facilities to immediately quarantine any units of the unapproved Zoladex injection that may be in their possession.
“The quarantined units must then be submitted to MCAZ for safe disposal.”
“Members of the public who may have purchased this unauthorized injection are advised to return it to the pharmacy where it was obtained.”
