In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the black market for illegal energy drinks is thriving. Despite strict bans by the Congolese Pharmaceutical Regulatory Authority (ACOREP), these harmful products continue to fill shop shelves. Popular with customers of all ages for their "energy boost" effect, these drinks have prompted a red alert from the medical community, which denounces them as a genuine public health hazard.

The illusion of energy versus the reality of medical emergencies

For many workers, these cans have become a daily ritual. Jean, a motorcycle taxi driver, says he never starts his day without his fix:

"I drink this beverage because it fights fatigue. As soon as I drink it, it gives me energy and I stay in shape all day."

However, behind this temporary surge of energy lies a formidable trap. Flora Samba, a shopkeeper, narrowly escaped disaster because of her addiction:

"Over time, I started experiencing palpitations and chronic fatigue. My blood pressure skyrocketed, fluctuating between 19 and 21. I had to stop everything."

An explosive cocktail and drug fraud

While the classic composition of these drinks relies on stimulants such as caffeine , taurine or ginseng , unscrupulous local manufacturers do not hesitate to falsify their recipes.

Dr. David Anovel, a public health expert, is raising the alarm about deadly fraudulent practices: the hidden presence of aphrodisiac drugs, including sildenafil (the active ingredient in Viagra).

1. Astronomical dosages: Analyses have revealed between 200 and 300 mg of sildenafil per bottle, concealed without the knowledge of consumers.
2. Major life-threatening risks: In addition to headaches, dizziness and vision problems, this overconsumption leads to strokes, severe heart rhythm disorders and cardiac arrests.

The response of the regulatory authorities

Faced with this health hazard, ACOREP is taking action. In Kinshasa, a factory producing these adulterated beverages was recently sealed off. The crackdown is now being extended to other provinces of the country.

David Kawel, head of the ACOREP provincial division in Lubumbashi, affirms his determination:

"In Haut-Katanga, we have expanded controls to all beverages available on the market. Everything will be analyzed to ensure that no medicinal substances are being fraudulently introduced, endangering the population."

The message from health professionals remains clear and unequivocal: these drinks do not eliminate fatigue, they mask exhaustion while progressively destroying the body.