NAFDAC Raises Alarm Over Fake Malaria, Antibiotic Drugs In Circulation

THE National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a public alert over the sale of falsified and substandard anti-malarial and antibiotic drugs in Nigeria.

The affected medicines are ARTEMETRIN DS (Artemether/Lumefantrine 80mg/480mg) and CIPROFIT 500 (Ciprofloxacin USP 500mg), both allegedly manufactured by companies in Enugu State.

According to NAFDAC, laboratory tests carried out on the products revealed shocking deficiencies.

ARTEMETRIN DS was found to contain only 59.2% Artemether and 71.2% Lumefantrine, far below the acceptable 90–110% limits.

Even more alarming, CIPROFIT 500 contained just 5.7% Ciprofloxacin.

“These products pose a serious risk to public health, as patients relying on them may suffer treatment failure or complications,” NAFDAC warned in the statement.

The agency further disclosed that both products were purchased from a licensed wholesaler but do not appear on its registered product database.

It added that the NAFDAC registration numbers printed on the packaging are false.

“If you possess any of the products listed above, stop selling or using them immediately and return your stock to the nearest NAFDAC office,” the agency directed.

“If you or someone you know has used any of these products and experienced adverse reactions, we strongly advise seeking immediate medical attention from a qualified healthcare professional.”

NAFDAC also urged healthcare workers and members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected substandard or falsified medicines to the nearest NAFDAC office, by calling 0800-162-3322, or via email at sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng.