NAFDAC Warns Nigerians About Fake Anti-Malaria Drug in Circulation
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a public alert warning Nigerians about the circulation of counterfeit Combiart (Artemether Lumefantrine 20/120mg) Dispersible Tablets in the country.
In its alert, marked No. 043/2024 and published on its official website, NAFDAC identified the counterfeit drug’s manufacturing dates as February 2023 and June 2023, with expiry dates of May 2026 and June 2026, respectively. The product bears Batch No. 7225119 and NAFDAC Reg No. A11-0299.
The manufacturer is falsely listed as Strides Arcolab Limited, with an address at 36/7 Suragajakkanahalli, Indlavadi Cross, Anekal Taluk, Bangalore-562106, India.
NAFDAC has directed all zonal directors and state coordinators to conduct surveillance and remove the counterfeit product from markets across the country.
The agency urged importers, distributors, retailers, healthcare providers, and caregivers to exercise vigilance and avoid handling or using the counterfeit drug. It emphasized the importance of sourcing medical products only from authorized suppliers and verifying the authenticity and physical condition of such products.
Consumers and healthcare professionals are encouraged to report any suspected cases of substandard or falsified drugs to the nearest NAFDAC office or via the toll-free line 0800-162-3322. Reports can also be made through email at sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng.
Additionally, adverse effects related to medicinal products can be reported through the Med-safety app (available on Android and iOS) or via email at pharmacovigilance@nafdac.gov.ng.
NAFDAC assured the public that the alert has been submitted to the World Health Organization’s Global Surveillance and Monitoring System (GSMS) to bolster international efforts against counterfeit medications.
The agency remains committed to ensuring the safety of Nigerians and the integrity of the nation’s pharmaceutical supply chain.
