The National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a public alert regarding a counterfeit batch of Meronem 1g Injection circulating in the country, News About Nigeria reports.
The alert, marked as No. 036/2023, was signed by Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, the Director-General of NAFDAC, on Tuesday in Abuja.
The agency became aware of the counterfeit product through a report from Pfizer, the Marketing Authorisation Holder, received via a patient notification platform.
Pfizer reported that the vial content did not dissolve appropriately upon reconstitution for use.
Additionally, a visual inspection revealed discrepancies in the pack, with the crimp code not matching the code reported on the production documentation batch.
According to Prof. Adeyeye, the production process did not meet Pfizer’s specifications, posing a risk to patients if the counterfeit product is administered.
Meronem (Meropenem trihydrate injection) is an antibiotic used for treating skin and abdominal infections caused by bacteria, as well as meningitis in adults and children aged three months and older.
Healthcare providers and patients are strongly advised to procure all medical products from authorised and licensed suppliers.
Adeyeye stressed the importance of verifying the authenticity and physical condition of products before purchase and administration.
Importers, wholesalers, and retailers were warned against engaging in illegal importation, distribution, and sale of counterfeit Meronem 1g injection and other substandard medicinal products.
Anyone in possession of the counterfeit product is urged to discontinue its use and submit it to the nearest NAFDAC office.
Prof. Adeyeye emphasised the need for immediate medical advice from qualified healthcare professionals for those who have used the product or experienced adverse reactions.
Healthcare professionals and consumers were encouraged to report any suspicion of adverse drug reactions, or substandard, or falsified medicines to the nearest NAFDAC office or through the provided contact details.
The public is reminded to stay vigilant and collaborate with regulatory authorities to ensure the safety and integrity of medical products in circulation.
