A widely sold herbal product in Ghana has been struck off the market after regulators uncovered hidden pharmaceutical substances inside it. The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) confirmed that Omama Herbal Mixture, previously approved to treat malaria and boost appetite, had been secretly adulterated with a cocktail of prescription-only medicines.
The findings emerged during a joint market surveillance operation involving the FDA and the Ghana Police Service. Scientific tests revealed the presence of Diazepam, Metronidazole, Paracetamol and Niacinamide — synthetic drugs that are legally restricted to professional medical supervision. The Authority emphasized that products registered as herbal remedies are prohibited from containing such chemicals.
Due to the severe danger this contamination poses to consumers, the FDA has immediately revoked the product’s marketing authorization and is urging the public to stop using it without delay. The regulator warns that taking these medicines without guidance from qualified health personnel could trigger serious health complications.
Authorities are currently coordinating with the manufacturers, Omama Herbal Group Limited, to withdraw all affected bottles from circulation and dispose of them safely. In addition to the recall, the company is expected to face legal and regulatory sanctions, including possible criminal prosecution.
The FDA says it remains committed to safeguarding the wellbeing of Ghanaians and is encouraging the public to report anyone found distributing Omama Herbal Mixture so the product can be removed completely from the market.
