Counterfeit Augmentin 625mg Tablets Detected in Enugu
The Enugu State Commissioner for Health, Professor George Ugwu, has issued a public alert regarding the circulation of counterfeit Augmentin 625mg tablets in Nigeria, with possible presence in the state. The warning was contained in a statement released on Thursday by the Public Relations Officer of the Ministry of Health, Chidiogo Ugodu.
According to the commissioner, intelligence reports indicate that the fake products carry the same batch number, AC3N, as the genuine Augmentin manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline. However, the counterfeit tablets display inconsistent manufacturing and expiry dates: September 2025 and 2028, respectively. This discrepancy is a key identifier of the fake drugs.
Safety and Quality Concerns
Professor Ugwu further stated that the counterfeit tablets exhibit textural irregularities and poor-quality packaging seals, raising serious concerns about their safety, quality, and effectiveness. The commissioner emphasized that such substandard products could pose significant health risks to unsuspecting patients.
“Members of the public are advised to purchase medicines only from licensed pharmacies and accredited health facilities,” the statement read. “Providers and the general public should carefully inspect all Augmentin 625mg tablets before use.”
Call for Vigilance and Reporting
The commissioner urged anyone who suspects possession or sale of the counterfeit product to immediately report it to the nearest health authority or the Enugu State Ministry of Health. “Together, let us protect our communities from the dangers of counterfeit medicines,” the statement added.
The alert comes as part of ongoing efforts by the Enugu State Ministry of Health to safeguard public health and ensure the integrity of pharmaceutical products in the state. The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has also been urged to strengthen pharmacovigilance and promote rational use of medicines.
