NAFDAC Sounds Alarm Over Dangerous Fake Antibiotic in Circulation
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued an urgent public health warning about a potentially dangerous counterfeit antibiotic discovered in Nigeria's pharmaceutical supply chain. The alert, identified as Public Alert No. 37/2025, specifically targets a falsified version of BETACLOX, a combination antibiotic containing ampicillin and cloxacillin.
How the Counterfeit Medicine Was Discovered
The alarming discovery began when the suspicious product was initially purchased from Gambori Market in Maiduguri metropolis, Borno State by a distributor based in Kano. The counterfeit medicine then traveled through the supply chain until it reached a retail outlet in Zaria, Kaduna State, where alert healthcare professionals noticed irregularities and promptly reported their concerns to authorities.
Identifying the Fake Medication
Detailed investigation by NAFDAC revealed multiple red flags confirming the product's illegitimacy. The most glaring evidence was the fraudulent registration number A4-4724 displayed on the packaging. This registration number actually belongs to Mebendazole 500mg, a completely different medication manufactured by Chi Ltd.
Further examination uncovered additional discrepancies. The packaging listed an address as No. 128 MCC Road, Calabar, but verification with the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) confirmed that Freeview Pharmaceutical Ltd., the alleged importer, is officially registered at No. 101 MCC Road, Calabar, Cross River State.
Health Risks and Proper Use of BETACLOX
Genuine BETACLOX is a crucial fixed-dose combination antibiotic prescribed to treat various bacterial infections affecting multiple body systems. Healthcare providers typically use it to combat infections in the respiratory tract, ear, nose and throat, urinary tract, skin and soft tissue, and gastrointestinal system.
The circulation of counterfeit versions poses significant health risks to unsuspecting patients who might receive ineffective treatment, potentially leading to treatment failure, antibiotic resistance, or other serious health complications.
NAFDAC's Call to Action
NAFDAC has strongly urged all healthcare professionals, pharmacists, and the general public to exercise increased vigilance when purchasing medications. The agency emphasizes the importance of verifying pharmaceutical products and immediately reporting any suspicious medicines through multiple channels:
- Contact the nearest NAFDAC office
- Call the dedicated hotline: 0800-162-3322
- Email reports to: sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng
The regulatory body reaffirmed its commitment to protecting public health and ensuring that only safe, effective, and properly registered medicines remain available in the Nigerian market. This alert represents part of NAFDAC's ongoing efforts to combat the circulation of substandard and falsified medical products that endanger public health.
