The National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a warning about the circulation of counterfeit **Combiart Dispersible Tablets 20/120mg**, an antimalarial drug in Nigeria.
The alert, posted on NAFDAC’s X (formerly Twitter) handle on Thursday, revealed that the counterfeit product was discovered during surveillance operations in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Rivers State.
### **Counterfeit Drug Details**
NAFDAC identified the product as purportedly manufactured by **Strides Arcolab Limited**, based in Bangalore, India. However, investigations revealed several alarming discrepancies:
– **Zero Active Ingredients**: Laboratory tests showed the product lacked Artemether and Lumefantrine, the active components crucial for malaria treatment.
– **Mismatched Dates**: The product had conflicting manufacturing dates (June 2023 and February 2023) and expiry dates (May 2026 and June 2026).
– **Invalid License**: The NAFDAC registration number (A11-0299) was fake and unrelated to the product, and its license had expired.
### **Health Risks**
NAFDAC warned that counterfeit drugs pose serious health risks as they fail to meet regulatory standards. Their ineffectiveness can lead to untreated conditions, severe health complications, and even death.
“The Artemether and Lumefantrine combination is critical for treating malaria. Counterfeit versions risk public health significantly,” NAFDAC stated.
### **Batch Information and Manufacturer Details**
– **Batch Number**: 7225119
– **Manufacturer Address**:
Strides Arcolab Limited,
36/7, Suragajakkanahalli, Indlavadi Cross,
Anekal Taluk, Bangalore (562 106), India.
### **NAFDAC’s Actions and Recommendations**
NAFDAC has directed its zonal directors and state coordinators to intensify surveillance and remove the counterfeit product from circulation. The agency urged importers, distributors, retailers, and healthcare professionals to remain vigilant, avoid unauthorized suppliers, and verify the authenticity of medicines.
Consumers and professionals are encouraged to report suspicious drugs or adverse reactions via:
– **Hotline**: 0800-162-3322
– **Email**: sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng or pharmacovigilance@nafdac.gov.ng
– **Med-Safety App**: Available on Android and iOS
Reports will also be forwarded to the World Health Organization’s Global Surveillance and Monitoring System to support broader efforts against counterfeit drugs.
### **Public Health Advisory**
NAFDAC emphasized the importance of purchasing medicines only from licensed suppliers to ensure safety and efficacy. The agency continues to monitor and address threats to public health posed by counterfeit medical products.
