By Edward Makuzva The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) has issued a stern warning to the public against purchasing or using complementary medicines being sold and advertised by a company trading as Phytomed, citing that the products have not been approved for sale or marketing in Zimbabwe In a statement released yesterday, MCAZ said it had observed with “great concern” that Phytomed was promoting and distributing its products through various social media platforms, including WhatsApp and Facebook, without the mandatory prior written approval from the Authority. Such activities, according to MCAZ, are a violation of the Medicines and Allied Substances Control (General) Regulations, 1991 (Statutory Instrument 150 of 1991), particularly Sections 65(1b) and 65(3), which govern the advertising of medicines in Zimbabwe. Section 65(1b) clearly states that “No person shall advertise any other medicine without the approval of the Authority in writing,” while Section 65(3) prohibits the advertisement of any medicine to the public in a manner that promotes its use for the treatment of specific medical conditions listed under the Seventh Schedule of the Regulations. Violators of these provisions face prosecution and may be penalised with a fine not exceeding level seven, imprisonment for up to six months, or both. MCAZ cautioned that the sale and promotion of unregistered complementary medicines pose significant health and safety risks to consumers, as such products have not undergone scientific evaluation to verify their safety, efficacy, or quality. “We urge members of the public to purchase medicines only from licensed and approved outlets,” said MCAZ Director-General Richard Rukwata. “A register of licensed premises and persons is available on the MCAZ website for public verification.” The Authority reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding public health by ensuring that only safe, effective, and quality-assured medicines are made available on the Zimbabwean market. It also pledged to intensify monitoring, investigation, and enforcement efforts to curb illegal pharmaceutical practices. “MCAZ will continue to take appropriate legal action against all unlawful activities within the pharmaceutical sector,” Rukwata emphasized. Consumers are encouraged to remain vigilant, verify the authenticity of medicinal products before use, and report any suspicious sales or advertisements to the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe. About MCAZ: The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) is the statutory body responsible for regulating the availability, safety, and quality of medicines and allied substances in the country. Its mission is to protect public health by ensuring that all medicines and related products meet approved standards before reaching consumers. Post navigation Holy Ten’s Outburst: A Teachable Moment on Patriotism, Privilege, and Public Responsibility