The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a public alert warning Nigerians about the circulation of falsified batches of the emergency contraceptive, Postinor-2.
In a statement released by the agency, NAFDAC disclosed that the counterfeit versions were discovered during routine surveillance of pharmaceutical products in some parts of the country. The agency noted that the fake batches were packaged in a way that closely resembled the genuine product, making it difficult for unsuspecting buyers to differentiate.
NAFDAC explained that the falsified Postinor-2 tablets may not contain the active ingredient, Levonorgestrel, or may contain harmful substances, posing serious risks to the health of users. The agency further emphasized that consumption of the counterfeit product could result in contraceptive failure, unwanted pregnancies, and other adverse health complications.
Consumers and health workers have been advised to carefully check the packaging of Postinor-2 before purchase, paying attention to the batch number, manufacturing and expiry dates, and NAFDAC registration number. NAFDAC also urged Nigerians to purchase medicines only from licensed pharmacies and drug outlets.
The agency has appealed to the public to report any suspected cases of fake Postinor-2 or other falsified medical products to the nearest NAFDAC office, through its toll-free numbers, or via its Med-Safety App.
NAFDAC reiterated its commitment to safeguarding public health by intensifying market surveillance, collaborating with security agencies, and clamping down on criminal networks involved in the distribution of counterfeit medicines.
