Use of Ondansetron batch halted after probe into two deaths

Deputy Minister of Health Hansaka Wijemuni announced that investigations are underway into a batch of the anaesthesia‑related drug Ondansetron, following reports of two deaths that raised concerns about its safety.

Speaking at a media briefing at the Kandy District Secretariat yesterday (16), Wijemuni explained that Ondansetron is routinely administered to prevent side effects during anaesthesia.

He noted that millions of doses have been imported and used since April, with no adverse reactions reported until November.

According to the Deputy Minister, five patients at Jayewardenepura Hospital reported minor side effects last month. The National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA) reviewed the cases and concluded that the drug could continue to be administered, while recommending vigilance and further testing.

However, on November 12, a patient’s death prompted suspicion about the drug’s impact. A doctor at Kandy National Hospital had already conducted a lab test on the drug and released data by that time. Based on this information, the NMRA ordered hospitals nationwide to immediately halt use of the specific batch in question.

A second death was reported on November 14, with evidence suggesting the patient had also received Ondansetron. Wijemuni confirmed that both cases are under investigation to determine whether the fatalities were linked to the drug or to underlying illness.

He added that the inquiry will examine whether harmful substances were present in the samples or if a manufacturing defect was responsible. 

The problematic batch has since been withdrawn from both government and private hospitals, with instructions issued to source supplies from other importers, the Deputy Health Minister said. (Newswire)

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