Staff Writer
Harare — The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) has raised alarm over the growing trend of unauthorized advertisements for medicines—including herbal and complementary products—particularly on social media platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, and X (formerly Twitter).
In a strongly worded statement, MCAZ Director-General Mr Richard T Rukwata warned that many of these promotions, often endorsed by celebrities and influencers, are in direct violation of the Medicines and Allied Substances Control Act (Chapter 15:03) and its accompanying regulations.
“These advertisements are not only illegal but also potentially dangerous to public health,” said Mr. Rukwata.
“The law is clear—no medicine should be advertised without written approval from the Authority, and prescription medicines should never be marketed directly to the public.”
Legal Framework and Offences
Under Section 40 of the Act and Section 65 of the Medicines and Allied Substances Control (General) Regulations, 1991, only approved advertisements are allowed. Violations, including the distribution of false or misleading claims, attract penalties under both the Act and its Regulations.
The MCAZ defines advertisements broadly, encompassing any form of visual, verbal, or written communication meant to promote the sale of medicine—including online content, videos, and messages shared with the public.
Red Flags for the Public
To help the public identify questionable promotions, the MCAZ shared key warning signs:
Lack of a Registration Number: Approved medicines carry a unique registration number which can be verified via the MCAZ website.
Unrealistic Claims: Promises of instant cures, 100% effectiveness, or no side effects should be treated with skepticism.
Over-the-Top Comparisons: Claims of superiority over other brands often lack supporting evidence.
Direct Sales of Prescription Drugs: Encouragement to buy prescription medicines without consulting a healthcare professional is a major red flag.
One Cure for Many Diseases: Products claiming to treat a wide range of unrelated conditions (e.g. diabetes and cancer) are likely fraudulent.
Fear-Based Marketing or Bonus Offers: Use of fear tactics or promotional discounts in medicinal ads is considered unethical and suspicious.
Enforcement and Public Engagement
The MCAZ, in collaboration with the Zimbabwe Republic Police, has pledged to enforce the law and prosecute violators. The Authority is urging influencers, socialites, and the general public to refrain from promoting medicines without proper clearance and to report suspected illegal advertisements.
“We will not hesitate to take necessary legal action,” Mr. Rukwata stated, emphasizing the role of the public in safeguarding the health sector.
For more information or to verify a medicine’s registration, members of the public are encouraged to visit the MCAZ official website.
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