The Rwanda Food and Drugs Authority (Rwanda FDA) has officially suspended the importation, distribution, and use of a pharmaceutical product branded as “RELIEF” following findings of non-compliance with national safety and quality standards.
In a public notice released June 11, 2025, the regulatory body explained that its recent post-market surveillance revealed irregularities in the composition and safety of “RELIEF” tablets.
These tablets are marketed for pain and flu relief and contain a combination of Diclofenac Sodium, Paracetamol, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, and Magnesium Trisilicate.
Rwanda FDA directed all pharmaceutical importers and distributors to immediately stop the importation and sale of the product. The authority emphasized that any existing stock must be withdrawn from the market and quarantined.
“All individuals are strongly advised to cease the use of all tablet forms of RELIEF until further notice,” the statement read.
The Authority warned that any person or entity found importing, distributing, or supplying the banned product will face legal penalties in accordance with national laws.
In Musanze District, local pharmacists have already started pulling the product from their shelves. Jean Boaco Mutuyimana, a pharmacist at one of the leading drugstores in the thr district, expressed support for the measure:
“We had stocked RELIEF because it was affordable and widely used by patients with flu and body aches. But public safety comes first. We’ve stopped selling it immediately and are cooperating with Rwanda FDA’s instructions.”
Consumers and stakeholders seeking further clarification have been urged to contact Rwanda FDA via the toll-free number 9707,m.
