NDA warns Ugandans against buying locally made Covid-19 herbal drug purporting to cure the virus

The National Drug Authority (NDA) has cautioned the public against purchasing herbal drugs purporting to treat Covid-19.

NDA’s warning comes hot in the heels of the ongoing promotion and sale of a herbal drug called Covidex manufactured by Jena Herbals (U) Ltd that claims to prevent and treat Covid-19.

In a press statement issued on Monday, the authority’s Public Relations Manager Abiaz Rwamwiri said that despite the fact they have approved some drugs from the company in question, the particular drug ‘Covidex’ which is on the promotion has not been approved nor authorized.

“NDA informs the public that it has not undertaken any assessment or approved Covidex, neither has it received any application from the innovator of the Covidex as required by National Drug Policy and Authority Act cap 206. NDA has authorized some products from Jena Herbals (U) Ltd and they are aware of processes concerning drug development, clinical trials, authorization, drug promotion and licensing before production and sale of herbal medicine. This morning, NDA met with a team from Jena Herbals (U) Ltd led by Prof. Patrick Ogwang and have agreed to follow the necessary processes as per NDA Act cap 206,” Rwamwiri said.

He also cautioned all manufacturers /innovators of herbal medicines to first seek guidance from NDA before the production and sale of their products. He emphasized that NDA encourages research in herbal medicines and is always ready to guide to ensure safe, efficacious and quality drugs to the entire population of Uganda.

“The public is warned against the use of products on the market that are not authorized by NDA purporting to treat covid-19. The public is also advised to follow Ministry of Health (MOH) guidelines and SOPs and always seek treatment from licenced health facilities. To avoid getting or spreading covid-19, NDA reminds the public to always wear masks, wash hands with soap and water or sanitize and maintain social distancing.”