PANADOL ADVANCE comes in a pack of 20 tablets, with each tablet containing 500mg of Paracetamol. Panadol Advance is an advanced formulation of paracetamol that often includes Optizorb technology, designed for faster absorption compared to standard paracetamol tablets.² It is a widely used and trusted over-the-counter analgesic (painkiller) and antipyretic (fever reducer) in Kenya.

It provides effective relief for a variety of common pains and discomforts, including:

• Headache and migraine³

   

• Fever⁴

   

• Period pains (dysmenorrhea)⁵

   

• Toothache⁶

   

• Musculoskeletal pain (e.g., backache, muscle pain, rheumatic pain)⁷

   

• Pain of osteoarthritis⁸

   

• Discomfort and pains associated with colds, sore throats, and influenza (flu)⁹

   

• Helps reduce elevated body temperature.¹⁰

   

Panadol Advance is generally considered gentle on the stomach when used as directed.

PANADOL EXTRA comes in a pack of 20 tablets, with each tablet containing 500mg of Paracetamol and 65mg of Caffeine.² This combination analgesic is designed to provide more effective and often faster pain relief than standard paracetamol alone.³ The addition of caffeine acts as an adjuvant, enhancing the pain-relieving effects of paracetamol.

Panadol Extra is a common over-the-counter medication in Kenya, used for the relief of:

• Headache and migraine⁵
• Hangover pains
• Fever
• Period pains (dysmenorrhea)
• Toothache
• Musculoskeletal pain (e.g., backache, muscle pain, rheumatic pain)
• Pain of osteoarthritis
• Discomfort and pains associated with colds, sore throats, and influenza (flu)
• Helps reduce elevated body temperature.

It is particularly marketed for “tough pain” due to the synergistic effect of paracetamol and caffeine.

The PangaO Upper-Arm Digital Blood Pressure Machine, priced at KSh 6,310.00 and available in Kenya, is an intelligent electronic blood pressure monitor designed for accurate and convenient measurement of blood pressure. It is specifically an upper-arm model, which is generally recommended for its accuracy.² This device is ideal for both home and clinic use, providing a reliable tool for monitoring hypertension or maintaining cardiovascular health.³ While it does not feature the “talk function” found in some other PangaO models (like the Black Diamond), it compensates with an enlarged LCD Digital screen for display, ensuring clear and easy-to-read results.⁴ A significant feature is its ability to store up to 90 measurements, complete with the specific dates and times, allowing users to track trends over time.⁵

PECTORAL COUGH SYRUP comes in a 100ML bottle. Originally manufactured by Mepha Ltd, Switzerland, it is now manufactured by or for Acino Pharma, Switzerland, following Acino’s acquisition of Mepha Ltd. Pectoral is an herbal cough syrup formulated to address coughs accompanied by the excessive production of thick, viscous mucus, commonly associated with the common cold and bronchitis.

Per 5mls, Pectoral Cough Syrup on ePharmacy Kenya contains the following fluid extracts:

• Plantaginis fluid extract (Plantago): 12.5mg
• Primulae fluid extract (Primula/Cowslip root): 25mg
• Senegae fluid extract (Senega root): 18.5mg
• Thymi fluid extract (Thyme): 337.5mg

This syrup works by leveraging the traditional mucolytic and expectorant properties of its herbal components to help thin and expel mucus, thereby easing congestion and cough. It is typically available without a prescription.

PECTYLIN-C COUGH EXPECTORANT comes in a 120ML bottle.² It is manufactured by Ipca Laboratories Ltd, Mumbai. This pleasantly flavored cough syrup is formulated to provide effective relief for a range of respiratory symptoms, including coughs, influenza, colds, and bronchitis. Its multi-ingredient composition aims to not only suppress coughing but also to soothe irritated mucous membranes and help in the clearance of mucus.

Per 5mls, Pectylin-C contains:

• Diphenhydramine hydrochloride: 14mg
• Ammonium hydrochloride: 135mg
• Sodium citrate: 57mg
• Menthol: 1.1 mg

Pectylin-C is typically available over-the-counter in Kenya.

Peglec Bowel Preparation Powder, available in Kenya as a 137.15gms single sachet, is a unique combination of Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) with electrolytes.² It is specifically designed for gastrointestinal lavage, a process of thorough colon cleansing. Peglec offers a fast and effective way to cleanse your colon (intestines) before a colonoscopy or other diagnostic procedures that require a clean bowel. The product indicates that users can typically expect their first bowel movement approximately 1 hour after the start of Peglec administration, signifying its rapid action in preparing the bowel for examination.

PHLEBODIA 600MG comes in a pack of 15 tablets, with each tablet containing 600mg of Diosmine. Diosmine is a naturally occurring flavonoid glycoside primarily found in citrus fruits, and it is widely used as a venotonic and vasculoprotector. This medicine is designed to improve the health and function of blood vessels, particularly veins and capillaries.

In Kenya, PHLEBODIA 600mg is indicated for use only in adults for:

• Blood circulation problems: Such as a sensation of heaviness, pain, and nocturnal leg cramps associated with poor venous circulation (e.g., in conditions like chronic venous insufficiency, which can lead to varicose veins or skin bedsores).
• Treatment of the symptoms of acute hemorrhoids: To alleviate pain, swelling, and bleeding.
• Treatment of capillary fragility: To increase the resistance of small blood vessels against harmful influences, thus reducing easy bruising or bleeding.

Phlebodia 600mg is often available with or without a prescription in Kenya, but its use should be guided by a healthcare professional.

Poligrip® Flavour Free Fixative Cream, offered in a 40gm tube, is a specially formulated denture adhesive available in Kenya through ePharmacy Kenya Online Chemist. Designed to provide an all-day hold for dentures, this cream is particularly appealing to users seeking a product free of artificial colors and flavors, ensuring a more natural experience.⁵ A key benefit highlighted is its ability to seal out irritating food particles, even when dentures are well-fitting, thereby enhancing comfort and preventing discomfort caused by trapped food debris.⁶ Manufactured by GSK, Poligrip® Flavour Free Fixative Cream aims to provide denture wearers with confidence and improved quality of life by ensuring secure fit and protection against common irritations.⁷

Poligrip® Ultra Denture Fixative Gel, available in a 40gm tube in Kenya, is an advanced denture adhesive designed to provide all-day secure hold for dentures.⁶ This particular formulation distinguishes itself with a Fresh Mint Flavour, which aims to provide a refreshing sensation without overpowering the taste of food, ensuring a neutral impact on meal enjoyment.⁷ A key functional benefit of Poligrip® fixatives is their ability to seal out irritating food particles, even when dentures are well-fitted. This feature is crucial for preventing discomfort and maintaining oral hygiene by keeping food debris from getting trapped beneath the denture. Overall, Poligrip® Ultra Fixative Gel targets denture wearers seeking enhanced confidence, comfort, and a pleasant oral experience.

PROCTOSEDYL SUPPOSITORIES come in a pack of 12 suppositories, each containing a combination of two active ingredients: Hydrocortisone acetate 5mg and Cinchocaine HCL 5mg. This dual-action formulation is designed to provide effective relief from the pain, itching, swelling, and discomfort associated with irritated anorectal tissues.

In Kenya, Proctosedyl suppositories are commonly used for:

• Haemorrhoids (Piles): Both internal and external.
• Proctitis: Inflammation of the rectum.
• Milder forms of anal fissures: Small tears in the lining of the anus.
• Pruritus ani: Chronic itching around the anus.
• Postoperative pain relief: After anal or rectal surgery.

While this product is stated to be available online in Kenya without a prescription, its usage MUST be done in accordance with a physician’s guidance due to its corticosteroid component and potential side effects.

S-FILM 50MG is an innovative formulation of Sildenafil (50mg), commonly known as Viagra, presented as an orally disintegrating strip. Available in Kenya as a single strip, this product emphasizes its key advantages: fastest acting, easy to carry, and designed to dissolve rapidly in the mouth. Crucially, it requires no water or swallowing liquids, offering instant action for its intended purpose. This discreet and convenient format aims to provide a more rapid and user-friendly alternative to traditional sildenafil tablets.

SATROGYL 300mg contains Satranidazole 300mg as its active ingredient.² It comes in a pack of 10 tablets.³ In Kenya, doctors use Satranidazole to treat a variety of infections caused by parasites and bacteria, including both intestinal and hepatic amoebiasis, giardiasis, anaerobic infections, and trichomoniasis. Interestingly, SATROGYL is also often prescribed for diarrhea or irritable bowel syndrome when an infection is suspected.⁴ A key advantage of Satranidazole, compared to other related drugs in its class (like Metronidazole), is its significantly better tolerability. It is less likely to produce unpleasant side effects such as a metallic taste in the mouth, nausea, vomiting, headache, weakness, dry mouth, and dizziness. This medication is available by prescription only.

SCHERIPROCT OINTMENT comes in a 30gm tube. It contains two active ingredients: Prednisolone Caproate (a corticosteroid) and Cinchocaine Hydrochloride (a local anesthetic). This ointment specifically provides short-term relief (typically 5 to 7 days) from the uncomfortable symptoms of anal itching and piles (haemorrhoids). While Scheriproct suppositories often suit internal piles better, the ointment offers versatility. You can apply it to the anal area for external piles or insert it into the back passage using the provided applicator for internal piles. Apply it in a thin layer twice daily. For rapid initial improvement, you may apply Scheriproct ointment three to four times on the first day. The nozzle facilitates intra-rectal application.

Important Note: Avoid long-term usage of this drug. Prolonged use may cause thinning of the anal inner lining. Use for a maximum of 7 days, and if symptoms persist, seek further guidance from a doctor. This medication is generally available without a prescription in Kenya.

SCHERIPROCT OINTMENT comes in a single tube. Its active ingredients are Prednisolone Caproate 1.3mg and Cinchocaine Hydrochloride 1mg (per gram of ointment, though exact strength varies slightly by region, e.g., 1.9mg prednisolone hexanoate and 5.0mg cinchocaine hydrochloride per gram in some formulations). Scheriproct ointment, and its suppository form, are widely used in Kenya to treat pain, itching, and discomfort associated with irritated anorectal tissues. These conditions include haemorrhoids (piles), proctitis (inflammation of the rectum), pruritus ani (anal itching), milder forms of anal fissures (small tears), and for post-operative pain relief in the anal area. While generally available without a prescription in Kenya, its usage MUST align with a physician’s guidance due to the presence of a corticosteroid.

SECNIDAZOLE 1000MG, often known by the brand name SECZOL DS, comes in a pack of 2 tablets, with each tablet containing 1000mg (1GM) of Secnidazole.¹ Secnidazole is a 5-nitroimidazole derivative that shares properties with metronidazole but is notable for its significantly longer plasma half-life, typically 20 hours or more.² In Kenya, healthcare professionals widely use Secnidazole for the effective treatment of various parasitic and bacterial infections, including intestinal and hepatic amoebiasis, giardiasis, and trichomoniasis. Its extended half-life often allows for a highly convenient single-dose regimen, which greatly enhances patient compliance.³ This medication is available by prescription only.

SELSUN ANTI DANDRUFF SHAMPOO comes in a 50ML bottle.² Its key active ingredient is Selenium Sulfide.³ This shampoo is specifically formulated in Kenya to treat and prevent common scalp conditions such as dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.⁴ Selenium Sulfide is highly effective in managing these conditions, which are often caused by the overgrowth of a specific yeast (Malassezia species) on the scalp. It also helps with conditions like psoriasis and seborrhea.⁵

Important: This medicine is for external use only and should NOT be taken by mouth.⁶ Always shake the bottle well before using. To apply, wet your hair with lukewarm water, then apply about 5ml of shampoo (or as recommended by a healthcare professional), and massage it thoroughly into your scalp. Leave the lather on for 3-5 minutes, and then rinse off completely.

SIMEPAR is a dietary supplement specifically formulated to support and protect liver health. It comes in a pack of 40 capsules, combining the potent hepatoprotective effects of Silymarin with a comprehensive blend of essential B-vitamins. Simepar is used as an adjuvant (a treatment given in addition to the primary therapy) for toxic and inflammatory liver diseases and for general liver protection, especially in cases of intoxication. It aims to help detoxify the liver and support its vital functions.

Each capsule contains:

• Silymarin: 70mg
• Vitamin B1 (Thiamine): 4mg
• Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): 4mg
• Nicotinamide (Vitamin B3): 12mg
• Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine): 4mg
• Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B5): 8mg
• Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin): 1.2 mcg

The recommended dosage is to take 1 capsule 3 times a day initially, then reduce to 1-2 capsules daily for maintenance.

SOMAZINA (CITICOLINE 1000MG) ORAL SOLUTION comes in a pack of 6 sachets, with each sachet containing 1000mg of Citicoline. Citicoline (also known as CDP-choline) is an endogenous compound. It plays a crucial role in the biosynthesis of phosphatidylcholine, a major component of neuronal cell membranes. In Kenya, doctors primarily employ Somazina in the treatment of stroke, where it is thought to prevent the accumulation of toxic free fatty acids and contribute to the repair of damaged neuronal tissue. Its mechanism of action supports brain health, particularly after injury or in neurodegenerative conditions. This medication is available by prescription only.

SOMAZINA (CITICOLINE 1000MG) ORAL SOLUTION comes in a pack of 6 sachets, with each sachet containing 1000mg of Citicoline. Citicoline (also known as CDP-choline) is an endogenous compound.² It plays a crucial role in the biosynthesis of phosphatidylcholine, a major component of neuronal cell membranes.³ In Kenya, doctors primarily employ Somazina in the treatment of stroke, where it is thought to prevent the accumulation of toxic free fatty acids and contribute to the repair of damaged neuronal tissue.⁴ Its mechanism of action supports brain health, particularly after injury or in neurodegenerative conditions.⁵ This medication is available by prescription only.