NAFDAC has issued a warning about two falsified medications circulating in Nigeria: Artemetrin DS (Artemether/Lumefantrine) and Ciprofit 500 (Ciprofloxacin). These medications pose serious health risks due to their low active ingredient content, which can lead to treatment failure and antimicrobial resistance.
Affected Products:
– Artemetrin DS (Artemether/Lumefantrine): Contains only 59.2% Artemether and 71.2% Lumefantrine, below the expected 90-110% limits. This medication is used to treat acute, uncomplicated malaria in adults and children.
– Ciprofit 500 (Ciprofloxacin): Contains only 5.7% of Ciprofloxacin, below the expected 90-110% limits. This antibiotic is used to treat various bacterial infections, including respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, and skin and soft tissue infections.
Health Risks:
– Treatment failure due to inadequate active ingredient content
– Antimicrobial resistance
– Increased risk of complications and mortality, particularly for vulnerable populations like children
Actions to Take:
– Stop selling or using the products immediately: If you have any of these products, submit them to the nearest NAFDAC office.
– Report adverse reactions: If you or someone you know has used these products and experienced adverse reactions, seek immediate medical advice from a qualified healthcare professional.
– Purchase medications from authorized suppliers: Ensure that all medical products are obtained from genuinely authorized/licensed suppliers, and verify their authenticity and physical condition.
