The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has directed all Chief Medical Directors (CMDs) and Medical Directors (MDs) of federal health institutions to immediately suspend the purchase and use of specific pharmaceutical and cosmetic products linked to serious health risks.

In a circular dated June 4, 2026, and signed by Dr. Gloria Uzoigwe, Head of the Dentistry Division, the ministry said it received notifications from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) regarding the recall and withdrawal of the affected products.

The products affected include Impala Gel Nail Polish, Children’s Ibuprofen Suspension (120ml), and all Levamisole-containing medicines.

According to the ministry, the Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency (ANVISA) ordered the recall of Impala Gel Nail Polish on March 16, 2026, after the product was found to contain substances associated with cancer and reproductive health risks. The substances identified were Trimethylbenzoyl Diphenylphosphine Oxide and N-dimethyl-p-toluidine.

The ministry also cited a recall issued by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on March 20, 2026, involving Children’s Ibuprofen Suspension, 120ml, due to contamination concerns. The affected batches are Lot Numbers 7261973A and 7261974A, with an expiry date of January 31, 2027.

In addition, the ministry announced the withdrawal of Levamisole-containing medicines over the risk of leukoencephalopathy, a rare but serious neurological disorder that affects the brain’s white matter.

The ministry instructed health institutions nationwide to immediately halt procurement and use of the affected products and to report any adverse reactions associated with them to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).

It also called for strict compliance with the directive and urged hospital managements to ensure the information is widely disseminated among healthcare professionals and relevant stakeholders.