Earlier, the ministry had issued a list containing 156 syrup drugs that can be prescribed through the Circulation Letter No. HK.02.02/III/3515/2022 on October 24.
In the letter, the ministry also outlined a list of 12 drugs that are difficult to replace with other stocks that are declared safe.
The National Agency for Drug and Food Control (BPOM) had announced a list of additional 65 safe syrup drugs on October 27.
However, the ministry has yet to create the latest circulation letter in response to this addition.
The circulation letter issued by the ministry serves as a reference for health service facilities, health workers, and pharmacies that necessitates exercising vigil, Syahril explained.
On Monday, the BPOM announced 69 drugs, produced by PT Yarindo Farmatama, PT Universal Pharmaceutical Industries, and PT Afi Farma, whose their distribution licenses were revoked.
This is related to the use of Propylene Glycol (PG) raw material and finished products that contain Ethylene Glycol (EG) that exceed the safe threshold as well as Drug and Production Method (CPOB) certification revocation.
When it comes to drugs that have been withdrawn by the BPOM, Syahril stressed that this means the drugs are banned and cannot be used at all.
On a separate occasion, Deputy Health Minister Dante Saksono Harbuwono told reporters here on Wednesday morning that his ministry is still coordinating with the BPOM.
The syrup drug data will always be updated and released gradually based on the time to conduct the clinical test for the drugs, he remarked.
He made assurance that the circulation letter will be issued in the near future.
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Translator: Rizka K, Fadhli Ruhman
Editor: Sri Haryati
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