The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC)
has issued a public alert warning Nigerians about the circulation of a suspected
substandard and falsified antibiotic, BETACLOX (Ampicillin 250mg and
Cloxacillin 250mg), discovered in the country’s pharmaceutical supply chain.
In a statement released on Monday, the agency said the
product carries fraudulent registration details and originates from an unverified
source, posing a serious threat to public health.
The discovery followed a report from a retail outlet
in Zaria, Kaduna State, which raised concerns after purchasing the
suspicious antibiotic from a distributor in Kano.
Upon investigation, NAFDAC found that the registration
number (A4-4724) displayed on the counterfeit BETACLOX packaging actually
belongs to Mebendazole 500mg, manufactured by Chi Ltd.,
confirming a case of identity and number misappropriation.
The falsified product was allegedly imported by Freeview
Pharmaceutical Ltd., which listed its address as No. 128 MCC Road,
Calabar, Cross River State. However, verification revealed that the genuine
Freeview Pharmaceutical Ltd. is registered at No. 101 MCC Road,
indicating an unauthorized use of the company’s identity.
Details of the Falsified Product
NAFDAC has directed all zonal directors and state
coordinators to intensify surveillance and mop up the falsified
product nationwide.
Distributors, pharmacists, and healthcare providers
have been urged to remain vigilant, ensure that medicines are obtained only
from authorized sources, and carefully check packaging details for
authenticity before dispensing or use.
Members of the public are encouraged to report
suspicious drugs or activities to the nearest NAFDAC office or contact the
agency via its toll-free lines and official platforms.
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