Lagos: The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a public alert regarding the circulation of counterfeit Artemether/Lumefantrine tablets, marketed under the brand name Aflotin 20/120, in Nigeria. The agency made this announcement via its Twitter handle, highlighting the potential health risks associated with the counterfeit drug.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the genuine manufacturer, Ajanta Pharma Limited from Mumbai, India, reported the existence of the counterfeit product. Ajanta Pharma disclosed that the authentic product was originally manufactured in December 2018 with a batch number PA2128L and had an expiry date of November 2020. This batch was intended for Combisunate 20/120 (Artemether 20mg/Lumefantrine 120mg Tablets) in a pack size of 30 x 24 tablets. However, counterfeit versions have been found in the market as Aflotin 20/120mg with a pack size of 1 x 18 tablets, indicating discrepancies in packaging and labeling.
The agency further explained that the overprinted matter on the counterfeit product did not match Ajanta’s official overprinting style. Investigations confirmed that the Aflotin 20/120mg tablets with Batch No: PA2128L available in Nigeria are counterfeit. The genuine Aflotin 20/120 tablet is designed to treat uncomplicated malaria caused by the Plasmodium falciparum parasite.
NAFDAC stressed the dangers posed by counterfeit medicines, which do not meet regulatory standards and compromise safety, quality, and efficacy. The agency warned that using counterfeit medicines can result in ineffective treatment of diseases, leading to severe health consequences, including death.
In response, NAFDAC has instructed all zonal directors and state coordinators to conduct thorough surveillance and remove any counterfeit products identified in their regions. The agency also urged distributors, retailers, healthcare professionals, and caregivers to remain vigilant and ensure that all medical products are sourced from authorized and licensed suppliers.