Health
Police and NDA Crack Down on Fake Hypertension Drug Marketed with AI Videos
Authorities have arrested a man for selling illegal hypertension drugs using Artificial Intelligence-generated videos mimicking doctors at the Uganda Heart Institute, raising serious public health concerns.
The arrest was announced on Monday at a joint press briefing by the National Drug Authority (NDA) and the Uganda Police. Luke Owoyesigyire, Deputy Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson, revealed that Nicholas Ogenga was apprehended in Nakasero, Kampala, following a complaint from Dr. Emmy Okello, a cardiologist at the Uganda Heart Institute. Dr. Okello reported that his likeness had been manipulated in videos promoting a product called “HyperGuard.”
According to NDA spokesperson Abiaz Rwamwiri, HyperGuard is being falsely advertised as a cure for hypertension. “This drug is not approved for use in Uganda and is completely counterfeit,” Rwamwiri stated. Authorities described its packaging as suspicious and noted that it lacked the necessary informational leaflet for users.
During a raid on Ogenga’s outlet, police recovered over 500 bottles of HyperGuard, along with another illegal product, Long Jack XXXL, marketed as a sexual booster for men. Preliminary investigations indicate that each 10ml bottle of HyperGuard was being sold for 165,000 Ugandan shillings. NDA has sent samples of the drug to the laboratory to determine its actual contents.
Dr. Okello expressed concern that some patients had already used HyperGuard and urged anyone who has taken the product to seek medical testing immediately. “This is a worrying situation because patients may unknowingly put their health at risk,” he said.
Experts emphasise that there is currently no definitive cure for hypertension. Dr. John Omagino, Executive Director of the Uganda Heart Institute, explained that high blood pressure can lead to serious complications such as heart attacks, strokes, and kidney failure, which require a combination of treatments rather than a single remedy.
With statistics showing that one in four Ugandan adults suffers from hypertension, Dr. Omagino advised a holistic approach to managing the condition. “Lifestyle changes, a balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and consistent medical check-ups remain the most effective ways to control blood pressure. No magical pill exists, and the public must be vigilant against false claims,” he warned.
The police and NDA have urged the public to report any suspicious drugs and to only purchase medication from licensed pharmacies to prevent further health risks. Authorities continue to investigate the source and distribution network of the counterfeit drugs.
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