![Director General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC Prof. Mojisola Christianah Adeyeye. [PHOTO CREDIT: Punch Newspaper]](https://crediblenewsng.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/images-6-1.jpeg)
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, has sounded the alarm over the discovery of counterfeit antimalarial drugs in circulation, warning that such falsified medicines pose serious risks to public health.
Counterfeit drugs do not meet regulatory standards, making their safety, quality, and efficacy unreliable. As a result, these products may fail to effectively treat illnesses, potentially leading to prolonged sickness, complications, or even death
The drug in question is a falsified version of AFLOTIN 20/120mg, a combination therapy of Artemether 20mg and Lumefantrine 120mg used in the treatment of malaria. The counterfeit product carries the following details:
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Product Name: AFLOTIN 20/120mg (Artemether 20mg / Lumefantrine 120mg)
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Batch Number: PA2128L
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Manufacturing Date: April 2023
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Expiry Date: March 2026
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Claimed Manufacturer: Ajanta Pharma Limited, Mumbai, India
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Stated Address: B-4/5/6, MIDC Industrial Area, Paithan, 431 148; Corporate Office: Ajanta House, Charkop, Kandivli (W), Mumbai 400 067
Sample of Original and Fake Aflotin tablets according to NAFDAC
In response, NAFDAC has instructed all zonal directors and state coordinators to initiate immediate surveillance and ensure that any counterfeit versions of the drug are removed from circulation within their areas.
The agency urged all stakeholders in the pharmaceutical supply chain—including distributors, retailers, healthcare professionals, and caregivers—to remain vigilant. They are advised to source medicines only from authorised and licensed suppliers and to thoroughly inspect the physical condition and authenticity of all pharmaceutical products.
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NAFDAC also encouraged healthcare professionals and consumers to report any suspicion of counterfeit or substandard medicines. Reports can be made through the agency’s toll-free number (0800-162-3322) or via email at sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng.
Additionally, adverse reactions or side effects from the use of any medical product should be reported promptly through the NAFDAC e-reporting platforms available on the agency’s official website.
The agency reiterated its commitment to protecting public health and ensuring that only safe and effective medicines are accessible to Nigerians.
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