The Ministry of Health, through the Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB), has recalled a batch of S-PRAZO (Esomeprazole Magnesium Delayed-Release 40mg capsules) following reports of a severe packaging error.

The recall affects batch number SPZ-302 of the drug Laborate Pharmaceutical India Limited manufactured.

According to Drugs.com, "Esomeprazole is used to treat symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and other conditions involving excessive stomach acid."
PHOTO | COURTESY  SPZ-302


"The product batch is being recalled following a market complaint regarding mix-up of blister strips; some boxes were found to contain two different blister strips, i.e S-Prazo Capsules and Donystatin Tablets, within the same outer carton," PPB CEO Dr. Fred Siyoi said in a public alert on Tuesday.

In light of the issue, PPB has instructed all pharmaceutical outlets, healthcare facilities, and professionals to immediately halt the recalled batch's distribution, sale, and use.

"Return the specified product batch to their nearest healthcare facility or respective suppliers," said Dr. Siyoi.

He further urged members of the public to report any suspected cases of substandard medicines or adverse drug reactions to the board through its official website, email, mobile number, mPvERs mobile application, and USSD code *271#.