Fake cancer drugs Flood Nigeria – NAFDAC warns

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has raised the alarm over the circulation of counterfeit cancer drugs in Nigeria, warning that the fake medicines could lead to treatment failure, severe complications, or death.

In a public alert, the agency disclosed that counterfeit batches of Avastin and Tecentriq have been detected in the country.

NAFDAC said the warning followed reports from Roche Nigeria, which confirmed multiple complaints from healthcare professionals nationwide about suspected fake products.

According to the agency, some patients had already purchased and presented the drugs at health facilities, with prices ranging between ₦180,000 and ₦350,000 — significantly lower than genuine versions.

Investigations revealed clear signs of counterfeiting, including mismatched batch numbers, poor printing quality, wrong text placement, and irregular serial numbers that do not align with Roche’s standard system.

NAFDAC identified specific counterfeit batches of Avastin with numbers H4239A70, H2290A34, and A3508B02, as well as Tecentriq batch B3071A12.

The agency, however, noted that chemical analysis could not be conducted as no physical samples were available, relying instead on packaging evidence submitted by complainants.

It warned that counterfeit oncology drugs may contain incorrect or no active ingredients, harmful substances, or wrong dosages, posing serious risks to patients.

“All zonal directors and state coordinators have been directed to intensify surveillance and mop up the counterfeit products across the country,” the agency said.

NAFDAC urged importers, distributors, healthcare professionals, and patients to remain vigilant and ensure medicines are sourced only from authorised suppliers. It also called on the public to report any suspected fake or substandard drugs through its official channels.