Substandard Artemetrin DS Raises Malaria Treatment Concerns
NAFDAC confirmed that falsified batches of Artemetrin DS are in circulation despite being sold by licensed vendors.
Laboratory tests revealed that the anti-malarial contained only 59.2 per cent artemether and 71.2 per cent lumefantrine.
These levels fall well below the acceptable 90-110 per cent potency limit required for effective treatment.
The drug was falsely labelled as manufactured by A.C. Drugs Ltd in Enugu State.
NAFDAC described the implications as severe in a malaria-endemic country like Nigeria, warning of potential treatment failure and preventable deaths.
Ciprofit 500 Counterfeit Poses Bacterial Infection Risks
The agency also identified falsified Ciprofit 500 tablets containing just 5.7 per cent ciprofloxacin.
The antibiotic was falsely labelled as produced by Impact Pharmaceutical Ltd.
NAFDAC confirmed that the drug is not registered in its official database and the printed registration numbers were fabricated.
Health experts said the substandard antibiotic could complicate bacterial infection treatment nationwide.
Government Response and Public Advisory
NAFDAC advised the public to immediately stop using the counterfeit drugs and return any remaining stocks to the nearest office.
Individuals experiencing adverse effects or treatment failure were urged to seek medical attention without delay.
The regulator emphasized that consumers should verify medicines using its online product verification database.
Healthcare providers and distributors were instructed to source products only from authorized outlets and report suspicious cases via hotline or dedicated email.
Global and Local Implications
The World Health Organisation estimates that substandard and falsified medicines account for roughly 10 per cent of the global pharmaceutical market.
In Nigeria, the prevalence may be higher, affecting malaria treatment, which kills over 200,000 people annually.
Counterfeit antibiotics also contribute to increased morbidity from bacterial infections nationwide.
NAFDAC recently seized fake malaria drugs worth ₦1.2 billion ($750,000) in Lagos on 12 September 2025.
Earlier alerts this year included falsified Postinor-2 contraceptives, Oxytocin injections, and milk products.
Regulatory Measures and Commitment
The agency aims to reduce the prevalence of falsified medicines to below five per cent by the end of 2025.
NAFDAC director-general Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye reaffirmed commitment to surveillance and enforcement.
“With the full support of the government, we will continue to intensify surveillance and enforcement to eliminate these threats,” she said.
Authorities continue nationwide monitoring and collaboration with local and international stakeholders to protect public health.
Public Guidance and Safety Tips
The regulator recommended careful examination of medicine packaging for authenticity features.
Consumers are advised to purchase medicines only from authorized pharmacies and wholesalers.
Reports of counterfeit drugs should be submitted immediately to NAFDAC through official channels.
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Healthcare professionals are encouraged to educate patients on the risks of substandard drugs and proper medicine verification.
The agency said it’s actions reflect ongoing efforts to safeguard public health and maintain trust in essential medicines.
