The Ministry of Health in Uganda has suspended the use of the baby food brand REPLENISH after reports of adverse side effects in children. The product, a ready-to-use therapeutic food (RUTF), is manufactured in Uganda and has been distributed by the National Medical Stores (NMS).
In a letter issued on January 7, Dr. Diana Atwine, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, informed local administrators that investigations were underway. The letter indicated that health facilities had reported negative reactions among children who consumed REPLENISH. The Ministry, in collaboration with the National Drug Authority (NDA) and NMS, has launched a probe to understand the cause of these effects. Until further notice, the use of REPLENISH in health facilities has been suspended.
Dr. Atwine reassured that alternative RUTF brands were available and could be used to continue the treatment of malnourished children. The remaining stock of REPLENISH is being securely stored to prevent further use, and all adverse reactions are being reported to the NDA.
Ms. Sheilla Nduhukire, spokesperson for NMS, noted that although REPLENISH had been in use for some time, the ongoing testing by the NDA and Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) will determine if there are any public safety issues. According to Mr. Abiaz Rwamwiri, spokesperson for the NDA, some of the reported side effects include severe diarrhea and vomiting.
RUTF products, like REPLENISH, are essential in treating severe wasting in children under five, a significant issue in Uganda. Wasting, which results from malnutrition, is linked to an increased risk of death if not treated effectively. UNICEF describes RUTF as a crucial, life-saving nutritional resource, combining 500 calories and micronutrients that help malnourished children regain weight.
Recent reports from the Ministry of Health show that 26% of children in Uganda under five are stunted, while 2.9% suffer from wasting.
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