The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has warned the public to stop using Omama Herbal Mixture after laboratory tests revealed that the product has been adulterated with several substances that could be harmful if taken without medical supervision.

In a statement signed by the Acting Chief Executive Officer, the FDA said that its investigations, conducted in collaboration with the Ghana Police Service, followed routine market surveillance and laboratory analysis of the product.

The results showed that Omama Herbal Mixture contained Diazepam, Metronidazole, Paracetamol, and niacinamide—all of which are allopathic medicines and not expected in a registered herbal product.

According to the Authority, “Omama Herbal Mixture is registered as an herbal medicinal product indicated for malaria and loss of appetite and is not expected to contain any allopathic medicines.”

The FDA cautioned that the presence of such medicines in the herbal mixture poses serious health risks. It explained that drugs like Diazepam , Metronidazole , and Paracetamol (a pain reliever) can be dangerous if taken without a prescription or medical advice.

“The medicines found in Omama Herbal Mixture are dangerous when taken without prescription and/or advice from a qualified health professional,” the Authority stated. “The public is, therefore, advised not to patronise Omama Herbal Mixture.”

The FDA added that it is working closely with Omama Herbal Group Limited, the manufacturers of the product, to recall all affected products from the market for safe disposal. It also announced that regulatory actions, including possible criminal prosecution, are being initiated against those responsible.

Reassuring the public of its commitment to health and safety, the Authority said, “The FDA wishes to assure the public that it will not relent in its efforts to ensure public health and safety.”

The statement further urged the public to report anyone found selling or distributing the banned product. “The public is advised to give information on persons, pharmacies, and over-the-counter medicine sellers offering Omama Herbal Mixture for sale to the nearest FDA offices,” the release concluded.

Read the statement below: