Counterfeit Combiart Tablets Found in Nigeria
The National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a warning about the circulation of fake Combiart Dispersible Tablets 20/120mg in Nigeria. The agency discovered the counterfeit drug during surveillance activities in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and Rivers State.
Zero Active Ingredients Detected
NAFDAC revealed that laboratory tests on the fake product showed zero active pharmaceutical ingredients. It also highlighted irregularities, such as two different manufacturing dates—June 2023 and February 2023—and mismatched expiry dates of May 2026 and June 2026. NAFDAC confirmed the registration number on the product was invalid.
Risks of Counterfeit Medications
The agency warned that counterfeit drugs pose severe health risks as they fail to meet safety, quality, and efficacy standards. NAFDAC stressed that such drugs often lead to untreated medical conditions, severe complications, or even fatalities.
Surveillance and Removal Efforts
NAFDAC has directed its zonal directors and state coordinators to intensify surveillance and remove the counterfeit product from circulation. NAFDAC urged importers, distributors, and retailers to exercise caution. They emphasised verifying the authenticity of medicines in their supply chains.
Reporting Suspicious Products
The agency advised healthcare professionals and the public to report suspected counterfeit or substandard medicines. Reports can be made through NAFDAC’s hotline at 0800-162-3322, via email at sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng, or through the Med-Safety app.
Global Monitoring System
NAFDAC announced it would add the alert to the World Health Organisation’s Global Surveillance and Monitoring System to strengthen international efforts against counterfeit medicines.
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