The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a public alert regarding the circulation of counterfeit Combiart (Artemether Lumefantrine 20/120mg) Dispersible Tablets in Nigeria.
In a statement titled Alert No. 043/2024, published on its official website, NAFDAC identified the counterfeit tablets as manufactured in February and June 2023, with expiration dates in May and June 2026.
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The affected batch, labeled as Batch No. 7225119, carries NAFDAC Reg. No. A11-0299 and lists Strides Arcolab Limited, based in Bangalore, India, as the manufacturer.
The agency has directed zonal directors and state coordinators to intensify surveillance efforts to remove the counterfeit products from circulation. Importers, distributors, retailers, healthcare providers, and caregivers are urged to avoid importing, selling, or using the counterfeit tablets.
NAFDAC reiterated the importance of sourcing medical products from authorized suppliers. “Healthcare professionals and patients are encouraged to verify the authenticity and physical condition of any product before use,” the agency noted.
The agency also called for vigilance in reporting suspected substandard or falsified medicines. “Healthcare professionals and patients are similarly encouraged to report adverse or side effects related to the use of medicinal products or devices to the nearest NAFDAC office, or through E-reporting platforms available on the NAFDAC website www.nafdac.gov.ng” the statement added.
Reports can also be submitted via the Med-Safety application, available on Android and iOS platforms, or through email at [email protected].
The agency assured Nigerians that this alert would be uploaded to the World Health Organization’s Global Surveillance and Monitoring System to facilitate broader action.
