By Mukembo Wilfred
The National drug authority (NDA) has approved Covidex a herbal medicine for public consumption as supportive treatment in management of viral infections but not as a cure of Covid 19.
It should be recalled that, on June 14th 2021, NDA released a statement notifying the public that it had not authorized the production, sell and use of Covidex (manufactured by Jena herbals Uganda limited) which was claimed to prevent and treat Covid 19.
While addressing the press on Tuesday morning at Uganda media center Kampala, the NDA secretary Dr David Nahamya, revealed that, they engaged the innovators and an application for notification was submitted on June 15th, initial assessments were scientifically done and a response with further guidance was sent to the innovators within three days.
Nahamya adds that, NDA received the answers on 27th and a comprehensive assessment was undertaken including an inspection of the factory to assess compliance with good manufacturing practices to ensure that the product is of good quality, safe and efficacious.
He says the innovators have removed unsubstantiated claims that the product treats and prevent Covid 19 and revised it to supportive treatment in management of viral infections.
He adds that, NDA has authorized over 190 local herbal products and provided technical support through over 70 inspection of local herbal medicines manufacturers. He however advised all innovators and manufacturers whose products have not been notified to engage with NDA team for assistance to have their products assessed.
