NAFDAC warns about fake diabetes drugs in Nigeria
NAFDAC has raised an alarm about counterfeit versions of Forxiga (dapagliflozin) being circulated in Nigeria. The agency said these fake drugs mimic the branding of the genuine product and could pose serious health risks. The counterfeit medicines were discovered after a report from pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca. NAFDAC is urging the public to be cautious and report any suspicious medicines.
Highlights
- NAFDAC detected counterfeit Forxiga products in the Nigerian market after surveillance by AstraZeneca.
- The fake products, Forzigar (batch number ATE-262, manufactured March 2025, expires February 2028) and Foziga (batch number GIB405-, manufactured June 2024, expires May 2027), were found in Eastern Nigeria.
- The agency warned that counterfeit medicines may contain incorrect ingredients, wrong dosages, or harmful contaminants, posing serious health risks.
- NAFDAC has started investigations and directed all zonal directors and state coordinators to remove counterfeit products from circulation.
- Consumers and healthcare professionals are advised to buy medicines only from licensed pharmacies and to report any suspected fake drugs to NAFDAC.
