NAFDAC Introduces Fake Drug Detection Machine

The National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has introduced the Mobile Identification System Device to identify fake pharmaceutical drugs right from the spot of purchase.

Not quite long ago, the agency came up with the Truscan Testing device.

According to the Director-General, NAFDAC, Dr. Paul Orhii, Nigeria is leading the world in the use of cutting edge technology to fight fake drugs.

The invention of Truscan Device, points to the fact that most drugs are imported into Nigeria through the sea ports. “And we have established waterways surveillance units with the deployment of Truscan Device for on-the-spot detection of fake pharmaceuticals and interception of imported anti-malarials,” he added.

The use of this device has also created job opportunities for Nigerians with youths trained in marine surveillance to boost field surveillance and operate 24 hours at the ports.

He also added that this will enhance the decongestion of the ports and regulate the importation of fake drugs into the country.

“It has also increased international collaboration on tracking and prosecution of drug counterfeiters,” he said.

The Public Relations Officer of NAFDAC, Mrs. Christiana Obiazikwor explained that while the Truscan Deviceis used at the ports, the newly introduced Mobile Identification System is used by the consumers right on the spot of purchase to detect fake drugs.

“This would re-assure the consumers of the authenticity of the drugs they are about to buy,” she said.

Describing how it operates, Obiazikwor said on one side of a drug package, numbers that are silvery coated are inscribed. When this is scratched by the buyer, there are some numbers, which can be sent to certain NAFDAC numbers, that are also printed on the package. When you send this on a mobile phone, you get an immediate reply stating if the drug is fake or not.

She affirmed that NAFDAC has convinced drugs manufacturers, pharmaceutical companies and others to buy into it.

—Oluremilekun Asubiojo