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UGANDA: Iranian anti-AIDS drug banned

[This report does not necessarily reflect the views of the United Nations]

JOHANNESBURG, 25 April (PLUSNEWS) - Ugandan authorities have banned the use of a popular anti-AIDS herb remedy known as "Khomeini", after tests found it provided no cure.

The government's directive came months after parliament had been informed that Khomeini was being sold to the public at exorbitant prices - US $1,650 per dose - with no information on its safety or registration.

Iranian Sheik Allagholi Elahi, head of Institute of Elahi International Initiatives for Development and Education, claimed the drug - which contains olive oil and honey - could cure HIV/AIDS and TB in three weeks.

However, studies by experts in Uganda and Kenya found that while patients had gained weight due to the nutritional content of the drug, it was incapable of curing HIV.

Ugandan health care minister, Alex Kamugisha, told the local Daily Monitor newspaper: "All patients under the care of Elahi are advised to receive appropriate care and treatment including antiretroviral from accredited health facilities ... anyone taking [Khomeini] does so at their own risk."

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