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COMESA Competition Commission has warned citizens of its member states against using Oxytocin Injection drugs manufactured by Gland Pharmaceuticals Ltd, India.

The resolution was after the commission established that the drug  which is supplied in various countries was recalled from the National Medical Stores of Uganda, after it failed the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) standard specifications for the visible particulate matter.

“The Commission has established that recalled drug is supplied in the other Member States and therefore pursuant to Article 30(1)(b) of the COMESA Competition Regulations (the “Regulations”) wishes to alert the public and authorities in the Common Market on the possible risks of using the recalled batch of the above drug,” the Commission’s registrar Meti Demissie Disasa said in a notice.

Recalled in Uganda

Oxytocin injection is often used to improve contractions during labor and reduce afterbirth bleeding. Consumers who may have already used the recalled batch have been urged to seek medical advice from a qualified healthcare professional and report the case to the relevant authorities.

 Gland Pharmaceuticals conducts its business globally, including in Kenya where it offers injectables, like vials and ampoules.

This even as stakeholders in theregions pharmaceutical industry want member states to find solutions to measures hindering trade among them.