Kehinde Fajobi
The National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has warned Nigerians about the circulation of counterfeit Paludex tablets and suspensions.
The fake products are being sold across the country, posing a serious health risk.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), NAFDAC revealed that the counterfeit Paludex Artemether/Lumefantrine tablets (80mg/480mg) and suspensions (180mg/1080mg for paediatric use) were being marketed by MD Life Sciences Ltd, based in Emene Industrial Layout, Enugu State.
These products are manufactured by Impact Pharmaceutical Ltd, located in Enugu, and Ecomed Pharma Limited in Ogun State.
It noted that laboratory analysis conducted by a WHO-prequalified lab in Germany found that both the tablets and suspension contained zero per cent Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API).
NAFDAC confirmed similar findings from its own tests.
Additionally, it stated that the counterfeit products do not appear in NAFDAC’s official product database, and all registration numbers displayed on them are false.
NAFDAC emphasized that the genuine Paludex product, which combines Artemether and Lumefantrine, is essential in treating acute, uncomplicated malaria. Counterfeit medicines, particularly substandard pediatric formulations, can cause treatment failure, as the API content is inadequate.
The agency has instructed its zonal directors and state coordinators to conduct surveillance and remove the fake products from circulation.
NAFDAC also urged distributors, healthcare providers, and patients to be vigilant and ensure that all medical products are sourced from licensed suppliers.
NAFDAC further advised anyone possessing counterfeit products to discontinue their sale or use and report them to the nearest NAFDAC office.
Consumers who have used the fake medicines should seek immediate medical attention.
The agency urged that reports of suspected counterfeit medicines can be made to NAFDAC via their helpline at 0800-162-3322 or email at sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng.