Liberia recalls Kaka Forte after test flags amphetamine risk

Published: December 19, 2025

MONROVIA — Liberia’s drug regulator has ordered the immediate recall of the widely sold pain relief medicine Kaka Forte after laboratory testing indicated the possible presence of amphetamine, a controlled substance not authorized for over-the-counter drugs in the country.

In a statement issued Thursday, Dec. 18, the Liberia Medicines and Health Products Regulatory Authority said a Rapid Presumptive Colorimetric Test conducted on Kaka Forte returned a positive result for amphetamine, triggering an urgent nationwide withdrawal of the product from the market.

Kaka Forte, manufactured by India-based AquaLab Pharmaceuticals, is registered to contain only Paracetamol 500mg and Caffeine 30mg (anhydrous) as its active ingredients. The regulator said the product will remain off shelves pending the outcome of an independent third-party confirmatory test.

Health Risks Prompt Swift Action

LMHRA warned that the presence of amphetamine in a non-prescription medicine poses serious public health concerns and violates national health and safety regulations.

“The presence of amphetamine can lead to severe side effects, including but not limited to increased heart rate and blood pressure, anxiety and agitation, risk of addiction or dependency, and potential for serious medical complications,” the authority said.

The regulator urged consumers to stop using Kaka Forte immediately and seek medical attention if they experience any adverse reactions after taking the drug. Health care professionals were also advised to promptly report suspected side effects linked to the product to LMHRA or other relevant health authorities.

Market Recall and Compliance

LMHRA directed all importers, distributors and retailers to immediately remove Kaka Forte from circulation and suspend all sales until further notice. The authority also instructed sellers to inform customers who may have already purchased the medicine about the recall and advise them to discontinue use.

The agency said the recall reflects its commitment to protecting public health and ensuring that medicines on the Liberian market meet approved safety and quality standards, adding that further updates will be issued once confirmatory test results are received.