The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a critical warning to Nigerians, exposing the alarming circulation of counterfeit COMBIART (Artemether + Lumefantrine 20/120mg) dispersible tablets in the country. The announcement, shared on the agency’s official X handle, comes under Public Alert No. 043/2024, emphasizing the urgent need for public vigilance against the dangerous counterfeit product.
NAFDAC revealed that the fake Combiart tablets, manufactured by Strides Arcolab Limited, India, were uncovered during routine surveillance in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Rivers State. These substandard products pose a grave threat to public health, as laboratory tests have confirmed they contain zero active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs)—a glaring red flag for their ineffectiveness and potential danger.
The investigation further uncovered disturbing discrepancies, including two different date markings on the product packaging. Additionally, NAFDAC confirmed that the counterfeit product bears an expired license and an incorrect NAFDAC registration number that does not match the product.
Details of the Counterfeit Product
Brand Name: Combiart Dispersible Tablet 20/120mg
Generic Name: Artemether + Lumefantrine 20/120mg Dispersible Tablet
Batch Number: 7225119
NAFDAC Registration Number: A11-0299
Manufacturing Dates: June 2023 and February 2023
Expiry Dates: May 2026 and June 2026
Manufacturer’s Address: Strides Arcolab Limited, 36/7, Suragajakkanahalli, Indlavadi Cross, Anekal Taluk, Bangalore- 562 106, India
Public Health Implications
The circulation of counterfeit medicines, such as these falsified Combiart tablets, poses significant risks to Nigerians. With zero active ingredients, they offer no therapeutic value, leaving malaria patients vulnerable to severe complications and even death. Moreover, the presence of such counterfeit products undermines public trust in healthcare systems and regulatory authorities.
Call to Action
NAFDAC urges healthcare professionals, distributors, and consumers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities involving substandard or falsified medicines. The agency has provided the following channels for reporting:
Call to Action
NAFDAC urges healthcare professionals, distributors, and consumers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities involving substandard or falsified medicines. The agency has provided the following channels for reporting:
Hotline: 0800-162-3322
Email: sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng
NAFDAC’s Commitment to Public Safety
As part of its mandate to safeguard public health, NAFDAC has intensified its surveillance and enforcement efforts to intercept the distribution of counterfeit drugs. The agency reiterates its zero-tolerance stance on substandard and falsified medical products and assures Nigerians of its unwavering commitment to protecting lives.
This development underscores the importance of purchasing medications only from reputable pharmacies and outlets while verifying their authenticity. Nigerians are encouraged to join hands with NAFDAC in combating the menace of counterfeit drugs to ensure a healthier, safer society.
For further updates and safety tips, follow NAFDAC’s official communication channels.
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