NAFDAC Issues Critical Warning On Counterfeit Cancer Medications

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a critical alert to the public concerning the circulation of counterfeit cancer medications in Nigeria. The counterfeit products—Phesgo® 600mg/10ml and Avastin 400mg/16ml—pose serious risks to patients and highlight the dangers of counterfeit drugs within the healthcare system, undermining legitimate treatments and public trust.

In a statement released through its official X handle, NAFDAC reported the discovery of suspected counterfeit Phesgo® 600mg/10ml in Lagos. The flagged batch is labeled C5290S20, following a complaint from a doctor at Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH-NSIA). The doctor reported that a patient had brought in the suspect product for administration, but it was intercepted before use. Dr. Vincent Olatunji, National Commissioner of NAFDAC, stated: “The Product Was Reported To Have Been Brought In By A Patient For Administration. It Had Not Been Administered At The Time Of The Report, As It Matched The Previously Reported Counterfeit Batch C3809C51.”

NAFDAC’s investigation revealed discrepancies confirming the product’s counterfeit status:
-The batch number did not exist in Roche’s database.
-The language on the labeling was inconsistent with genuine products.
-Tamper-evidence labels differed from authentic Roche materials.
-Incorrect bollino dates were observed.

Counterfeit drugs can have devastating effects on health, as they often lack safety, quality, and efficacy. These illegal products threaten public trust in healthcare systems and can lead to severe health complications.

NAFDAC has provided multiple channels for reporting suspected counterfeit products, ensuring swift action:
Helpline: 0800-162-3322
Email: sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng
Healthcare professionals can also report adverse events related to counterfeit medicines through NAFDAC’s E-reporting platforms or the Med-safety application.

source: reportafrique.com

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