Under the title "Egypt... Official Warning Against the Magic Mixture Injection," Sky News reported that with the onset of autumn and unstable weather, many people suffer from colds. Egypt has issued an official warning regarding the injection popularly known as the "magic mixture." The "cold injection," or "magic mixture injection," comprises an antibiotic, cortisone, and a pain reliever. This injection has gained popularity in Egypt as the quickest solution for colds while ensuring adequate body warmth, leading to individuals feeling as if they are no longer suffering from a cold the following day.
However, the Egyptian Drug Authority, affiliated with the Ministry of Health, has issued a warning emphasizing that this injection does not treat colds. Regarding alternatives to these injections, the authority stated that there is no specific treatment for colds; instead, some medications are used to alleviate symptoms under medical supervision. The authority also noted that even the use of medications to relieve cold symptoms should be based on the individual's health condition.
It highlighted that the most dangerous aspect is the use of cortisone, as it weakens immunity and adversely affects patients with diabetes and high blood pressure. Concerning antibiotics in general, it stressed that they do not treat colds since they are viral infections, while antibiotics are used for bacterial infections. It explained that using pain relievers and antipyretics can cause health issues for patients with liver, heart, diabetes, and asthma problems, and excessive use can lead to stomach ulcers and kidney dysfunction.
The head of the Allergy Department at the Egyptian Serum and Vaccine Authority, Amjad El-Haddad, echoed the authority's warnings, stating that the risks outweigh the benefits, if any exist. In exclusive statements to "Sky News Arabia," he clarified that this injection has no role in treating colds, as they are viral infections, which antibiotics, cortisone, or pain relievers do not alleviate or treat.
He emphasized that using antibiotics without necessity weakens the body's immunity, increases the spread of harmful bacteria, and eradicates beneficial bacteria in the human body. This also applies to the unwarranted use of cortisone. Regarding the impact of the "magic mixture" injection on individuals who have received the coronavirus vaccine, he noted that the cortisone in this injection affects the vaccine's efficacy, particularly if administered shortly after vaccination, such as within two weeks.
On a positive note, the Egyptian Drug Authority announced the launch of the "Together Towards Safe Medicines" initiative aimed at enhancing pharmaceutical care in public pharmacies in Egypt to implement pharmacovigilance activities, ensuring safe medication for patients. This initiative, according to the Authority, contributes to receiving reports of adverse drug effects, improving the technical performance of pharmacists, and providing safe medications or medical supplies to Egyptian patients.