The Pharmacy and Poisons Board has officially lifted the quarantine order on Mefnac Oral Suspension (Mefenamic Acid 50mg/5ml), a commonly prescribed pain relief medication that had been under scrutiny since December 2024. The medication, produced by Efroze Chemical Industries Pvt Ltd of Pakistan, had been restricted from sale and distribution within Kenya pending an investigation into its safety and quality. The suspension was precautionary, triggered by concerns regarding the product’s compliance with regulatory standards. During the months-long ban, the Pharmacy and Poisons Board conducted rigorous laboratory tests and a detailed review to ensure the drug’s safety for human use.
In a public statement, the Board’s Chief Executive Officer FM Suyoi confirmed that Mefnac Oral Suspension successfully met all necessary quality specifications. He assured the public and healthcare providers that the product posed no threat to users and is now cleared for legal distribution and administration within the country. This decision comes as a relief to both patients and medical professionals who had relied on the product for various forms of pain management. “The investigation results on the product meet all applicable specifications, and it is safe for distribution and use,” Suyoi noted, signaling a green light for the resumption of the medication’s supply chain.
The lifting of the quarantine order re-establishes Mefnac Oral Suspension’s position in the Kenyan pharmaceutical market. Hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies can now stock the medication, and healthcare professionals are free to prescribe it for appropriate cases. The Board emphasized the importance of vigilance and encouraged the public to report any issues related to the quality or side effects of medications to relevant health authorities. This step reinforces the Board’s ongoing commitment to ensuring public health and maintaining strict oversight of all pharmaceutical products in the country.
Mefnac Oral Suspension belongs to a class of drugs known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), widely recognized for their effectiveness in reducing pain, fever, and inflammation. In pediatric care, the suspension is frequently used to alleviate discomfort related to teething, flu symptoms, minor infections, and fever following vaccinations. Its liquid form makes it especially suitable for children, allowing for easier administration and dosage adjustments.
In addition to pediatric applications, Mefenamic Acid is a popular choice among women seeking relief from menstrual cramps, offering an accessible and effective remedy for monthly discomfort. Adults and elderly patients also benefit from the drug’s anti-inflammatory properties, particularly for managing arthritis, joint pain, and muscular injuries. Furthermore, Mefnac is sometimes used for short-term relief after dental procedures or surgeries where mild to moderate pain persists.
The Board’s decision to clear Mefnac Oral Suspension for use highlights the importance of robust regulatory processes that prioritize patient safety while ensuring access to essential medications. The careful investigation and transparent communication from the Pharmacy and Poisons Board have reassured both the medical community and the public. With the ban lifted, Mefnac is expected to return to pharmacy shelves, providing much-needed relief to those dealing with various forms of pain and inflammation.
