Public urged to exercise caution with zinc picolinate and selenium in children

The Namibia Medicines Regulatory Council (NMRC) has advised the public and healthcare professionals to exercise caution when using products containing zinc picolinate and selenium, particularly in children under 18 years.

The advisory follows a recent decision by the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (Sahpra) to recall similar products for use in children.

This was announced in a media statement released by NMRC registrar Fransina Nambahu on Sunday.

While the NMRC has not mandated a recall in Namibia, it emphasised the importance of consulting healthcare professionals before giving these supplements to children.

“Although these products are classified as Schedule 0 medicines and are available without a prescription, their classification does not eliminate the need for careful use, especially in children,” Nambahu said.

Consumers are encouraged to report any suspected adverse reactions to the Therapeutics Information and Pharmacovigilance Centre (TIPC).

Nambahu said the reports can be submitted in person via a Yellow Form through healthcare professionals, or online.

She added that the NMRC will continue its commitment to monitoring the safety of these products and will consider regulatory changes if necessary.

“Safety information and reported adverse events will continue to be actively reviewed to ensure public health protection,” Nambahu said.

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