Story by Abigirl Tembo, Health Editor
THE Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe has issued an urgent recall of Azithromycin 500mg USP Tablets, Batch Number 24050191, after a quality defect was detected during stability testing, raising concerns over the medicine’s effectiveness.
In a public notice, MCAZ said the Class II recall, up to retail level, affects products manufactured by Indoco Remedies Limited following an out-of-specification result identified during dissolution testing as part of a 24-month stability study.
The authority warned that the affected batch does not fully comply with approved product specifications, potentially reducing its effectiveness in treating bacterial infections.
“The identified quality defect may compromise the effectiveness of the medicine and contribute to antimicrobial resistance if therapeutic levels are not achieved,” the Authority warned.
As a result, MCAZ has directed all licensed wholesalers, pharmacies, public and private clinics and hospitals to immediately quarantine any stocks of the affected batch and cooperate with Indoco Remedies Limited and local distributors during the recall process.
Individuals who may have purchased Azithromycin from the affected batch have been advised to return the medicine to the pharmacy where it was obtained.
Patients who recently used the product are encouraged to seek medical advice from healthcare professionals.
The authority reiterated its commitment to safeguarding public health, stating that all medicines supplied in Zimbabwe must meet strict standards of quality, safety, and efficacy.
