Zimbabwean medical authorities are warning consumers not to fall for popularly advertised drugs that have not been approved for human consumption.
Such drugs, advertised in local media, often promise cures of serious illnesses including high blood pressure, diabetes and even HIV/AIDS.
The Medicine Control Authority of Zimbabwe said it has not approved such ads which are considered illegal. Under the law and the guidelines of the MCAZ all medicines distributed in the country must be licensed and regulated by the authority.
Dr. Douglas Gwatidzo, chairman of the Zimbabwe Association of Doctors for Human Rights, said it is proper practice for all medical practitioners to only dispense or use medicines approved by the authority.
Gwatidzo told VOA reporter Tatenda Gumbo that illegal drugs have become a challenge as many consumers take them without medical advice.
He said the many of the counterfeit drugs have not been passed for consumption and the long-term side effects could outweigh any short term health benefits.
In Johannesburg, meanwhile, more than 100 sex workers, including many from Zimbabwe, gathered in Johannesburg today to remember their colleagues who died while pursuing their trade, and to demand the legalization of their activities.
