The Liberia Medicines and Health Products Regulatory Authority (LMHRA) has recalled with immediate effect a medicine known as Kaka Forte after it tested positive for amphetamine following administration of a Rapid Presumptive Colorimetric Test.
A release said Kaka Forte, manufactured by AquaLab Pharmaceuticals in India, and whose active ingredients should only be Paracetamol 500mg and Caffeine 30mg (Anhydrous), will be removed from circulation until the receipt of the results of a third-party Confirmatory test.
“Undetected amphetamine in a formulation could pose significant health risks to consumers and violate established health and safety regulations as it is a controlled substance not authorized for inclusion in over-the-counter health products,” the Health Products Regulator warns. The presence of amphetamine can lead to severe side effects, including but not limited to: increased heart rate and blood pressure, anxiety and agitation, risk of addiction or dependency and potential for serious medical complications
LMHRA is advising all consumers to discontinue use of Kaka Forte immediately; “Anyone who has consumed this product and is experiencing side effects should consult a healthcare professional for evaluation and necessary medical advice.” LMHRA encouraged healthcare professionals to promptly report any adverse reactions or side effects that may be linked to the drug.
Meanwhile, importers, distributors, and retailers should immediately remove Kaka Forte from their shelves and halt any sales pending the test result.
“They are also to inform customers who may have purchased Kaka Forte about the recall and advise them to stop using the product,” the LMHRA release stressed.
