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The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has raised an urgent alert regarding the circulation of counterfeit Combiart (Artemether Lumefantrine 20/120mg) Dispersible Tablets in Nigeria. The agency issued the public warning through its official website under Public Alert No. 043/2024.
The counterfeit product, which is used for the treatment of malaria, was identified with manufacturing dates of February 2023 and June 2023, and an expiration date of May 2026 and June 2026. The affected batch, No. 7225119, is registered under NAFDAC Reg No: A11-0299.
The alert provides the manufacturer’s details as Strides Arcolab Limited, located in Bangalore, India.
NAFDAC has instructed its zonal directors and state coordinators to initiate thorough surveillance and ensure that the counterfeit products are removed from circulation. The agency has also called on importers, distributors, retailers, healthcare professionals, and consumers to remain vigilant, urging them to refrain from the importation, sale, and use of the counterfeit tablets.
In its advisory, NAFDAC emphasized that all medical products should be sourced from authorized and licensed suppliers. It also reminded stakeholders to carefully inspect the authenticity and physical condition of medicines before distribution or use.
The agency encouraged healthcare professionals and consumers to report any suspected counterfeit drugs or medical devices to the nearest NAFDAC office or through the agency’s communication channels, including the NAFDAC helpline at 0800-162-3322 or via email at sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng.
Additionally, NAFDAC urged the public to report any adverse effects related to medicinal products via the Med-Safety app, available on Android and iOS stores, or through email at pharmacovigilance@nafdac.gov.ng.
The notice will also be shared on the World Health Organization’s Global Surveillance and Monitoring System (GSMS) for further awareness and monitoring.