Federal government alerts Nigerians of fake anti-malaria drug in circulation

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The Federal Government has alerted Nigerians of two confirmed falsified versions of Quinine Sulphate in circulation. Quinine sulphate is used in the treatment of Malaria.  A statement signed by the Director, Media and Public Relations of the Ministry of Health, Boade Akinola, states that the two falsified drugs contain zero active pharmaceutical ingredients. The statement added that the drugs are majorly being circulated in West and Central Africa, particularly in Cameroon and Democratic Republic of Congo.

Akinola said one of the fake products was named Quinine Sulfate 300 mg with 1000 Tablets per container, Batch Number 10H05, expiry date 09/2018 and its date of manufacture is 09/2014. She stated that the drug manufactured by Novadina Pharmaceutical Limited, London, United Kingdom was first was discovered in Cameroon.

The other version of the fake drug was Quinine Sulphate 300mg with 100 Tablets per container; batch F4387, expiry date 11/18 and its date of manufacture is 12/14. She explained that the product was manufactured in India by CAD Pharm, and it was discovered in Bunia, Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Akinola advised Nigerians to be vigilant and report to the nearest National Agency for Food and Drug Administration office anywhere the drugs were spotted including hospitals and pharmaceutical shops.

The ministry advised Nigerians to also report if they come  ac the following GSM no +234-8037881120, +234-8055056727 and +234-8035902679. “If you are in possession of these products, please do not use them.

“If you have taken this falsified product or if you suffer an adverse effect following its uptake, please seek immediate advice from a qualified healthcare professional and report the incident to NAFDAC.’’