The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control has issued a public health alert warning Nigerians about the circulation of a counterfeit diabetes medication, urging patients, healthcare providers, and pharmaceutical distributors to remain vigilant.
According to NAFDAC, the fake product has been identified in parts of the country’s pharmaceutical supply chain and poses serious health risks to individuals living with diabetes. The agency warned that counterfeit medicines may contain incorrect ingredients, insufficient active substances, harmful contaminants, or no active medication at all, making them potentially life-threatening.
NAFDAC advised patients not to purchase medicines from unauthorized vendors, open markets, or unlicensed online platforms. Instead, the agency urged the public to obtain prescription medications only from licensed pharmacies and accredited healthcare facilities.
Healthcare professionals have also been encouraged to verify the authenticity of diabetes medications before dispensing them and to immediately report any suspected counterfeit products to the appropriate authorities.
The agency said enforcement teams have intensified surveillance and investigations to identify those responsible for manufacturing and distributing the fake medicine. Regulatory officials are working with security agencies and pharmaceutical stakeholders to remove counterfeit products from circulation and protect public health.
NAFDAC reiterated that individuals using counterfeit diabetes medication may experience poor blood sugar control, severe medical complications, or worsening of their condition due to ineffective treatment.
The agency urged members of the public to report suspicious medicines through its official reporting channels and to pay close attention to packaging, labeling, batch numbers, and authentication features before purchasing medications.
The warning forms part of NAFDAC’s ongoing efforts to combat counterfeit medicines and strengthen confidence in Nigeria’s pharmaceutical supply chain.
Swifteradio.com