On February 19, 2024, the Nigerian National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) issued a public warning regarding a popular herbal mixture called "Coco Samba." The agency's testing revealed that the product contains excessive amounts of sildenafil, a prescription medication used to treat erectile dysfunction and pulmonary arterial hypertension. Coco Samba was found to contain 150mg of sildenafil per 100ml, exceeding the maximum daily recommended dose.

The potentially dangerous levels were discovered after the product was seized by German customs. The product was then analyzed by the German Official Medicines Control Laboratory (OMCL), which confirmed the presence of undeclared sildenafil content.

Sildenafil can cause serious side effects, especially when taken in high doses or combined with other medications, including nitrates, which are commonly used for heart conditions. People with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or heart disease are at particular risk.

NAFDAC is urging consumers to avoid using Coco Samba immediately, seek medical attention if they have already consumed the product and are experiencing any adverse effects, and report any suspected Coco Samba products to the authorities.

The Pharmacy Board of Sierra Leone had also recently warned that it could not guarantee the quality and safety of the herbal drink.

This warning from NAFDAC serves as a reminder of the importance of regulatory oversight and consumer awareness when it comes to herbal products and dietary supplements. Consumers should always be cautious and informed about the ingredients and potential risks associated with such products.