THE Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe has extended the shelf life of selected ARVs after conducting research that show that the drugs are still effective.

The move put to rest fears by some patients who had complained that some health facilities were now dispensing expired ARVs. In an e-mailed response to
Sunday News, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Child Care Dr Gerald Gwinji said the life span of the selected drugs has been extended to July.

“The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) extended the shelf life of selected batches of Tenofovir/lamivudine 300/300mg to June and July 2019 after conducting the necessary tests.

The MCAZ processes include laboratory testing using internationally recognised protocols. The ministry has approved the distribution of the extended Tenofovir/lamivudine 300/300mg,” he said.

Dr Gwinji said all health facilities in the country that have stock and patients on the drugs should continue to dispense the ARVs until the end of the shelf life.State media