NAFDAC Alerts Public Over Counterfeit Cancer Drugs Circulating in Nigeria
Lagos, Nigeria — The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a stern warning regarding the circulation of fake versions of two critical cancer medications, Avastin and Tecentriq, across Nigeria. The agency emphasized the grave risk these counterfeit drugs pose to patients, calling for immediate action to curb their spread.
In a public alert released on Thursday, NAFDAC confirmed that counterfeit batches of Avastin 400mg/16ml (Bevacizumab) and Tecentriq 1200mg/20ml (Atezolizumab) have infiltrated the country’s pharmaceutical supply chain. These drugs, vital for treating advanced cancers such as glioblastoma, lung cancer, liver cancer, and melanoma, are now being sold at alarmingly low prices between ₦180,000 and ₦350,000—a red flag for potential fraud.
A Direct Threat to Public Health
NAFDAC’s warning followed reports from Roche Nigeria, the drug’s Marketing Authorisation Holder, detailing multiple complaints from healthcare professionals nationwide. Investigations revealed that several patients had presented suspected counterfeit medications at hospitals, prompting further scrutiny. The agency identified specific counterfeit batches, including Avastin with batch numbers H4239A70, H2290A34, and A3508B02, as well as Tecentriq batch B3071A12.
“These counterfeit oncology products pose a serious threat to public health,” NAFDAC stated. The agency highlighted several telltale signs of fake drugs, including incorrect batch numbers, poor-quality printing, spelling errors, tamper-evident labels inconsistent with genuine products, and invalid serial numbers. “The batch number does not exist in the Roche database, making lot tracing impossible,” NAFDAC added.
The Devastating Impact of Counterfeit Medicines
Counterfeit cancer drugs often contain incorrect or no active ingredients, harmful contaminants, or incorrect dosage strengths. Such fakes can lead to treatment failure, disease progression, severe adverse reactions, and even death. “This could result in treatment failure, disease progression, serious adverse events, or death,” NAFDAC cautioned.
Unfortunately, the agency has been unable to conduct chemical analyses due to the lack of physical samples. Investigations have relied solely on photographic evidence submitted by complainants, making the task of halting the spread of these counterfeit drugs even more challenging.
NAFDAC’s Call to Action
In response to the crisis, NAFDAC has directed its zonal directors and state coordinators to intensify surveillance efforts and immediately ‘mop up’ counterfeit products within their jurisdictions. The agency also urged importers, distributors, healthcare professionals, and patients to remain vigilant and ensure that medicines are sourced only from authorized and licensed suppliers.
“Ensure medicines are sourced only from authorised and licensed suppliers,” NAFDAC advised. The agency also encouraged the public to report suspected counterfeit or substandard medicines through NAFDAC offices, its hotline (0800-162-3322), or via email at [email protected].
A Growing Public Health Concern
The circulation of counterfeit cancer drugs underscores the broader issue of pharmaceutical fraud in Nigeria, where the demand for affordable medications often outweighs the supply. This has created a lucrative market for counterfeiters willing to exploit vulnerable patients. NAFDAC’s latest alert serves as a stark reminder of the need for stricter enforcement of drug regulations and heightened public awareness.
For cancer patients already battling life-threatening illnesses, the presence of counterfeit drugs adds an unnecessary layer of danger. Ensuring access to safe, effective medications remains a critical challenge for healthcare providers and regulatory bodies alike.
What’s Next?
NAFDAC’s efforts to combat counterfeit drugs are ongoing, but the agency has called for collective action from all stakeholders. Healthcare professionals and patients are urged to verify the authenticity of medications and report any suspicious products immediately.
As the agency continues its investigations, the public remains hopeful that stricter measures will be implemented to safeguard lives and ensure the integrity of Nigeria’s pharmaceutical supply chain.
— Reported by Nexio News
