NAFDAC has raised alarm over fake Oxytocin injections in circulation, warning of severe dangers to maternal and newborn health.
The agency urged vigilance, stressing counterfeit medicines could trigger fatal childbirth complications nationwide.
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a warning to the public following the discovery of falsified Oxytocin injections circulating in Nigeria. The agency cautioned that the use of such unregistered medical products poses grave risks to maternal and newborn health.
NAFDAC revealed that a falsified product identified as Gold Vision Oxytocin injection 10IU was recently uncovered during a risk-based sampling survey. The product carried a fake registration number A4-9566 and falsely claimed to be manufactured by Anhui Hongye Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.
Further investigation led to the discovery of three additional counterfeit products: a tocin injection, an Extocin injection, and a Claxitodin injection, all bearing the same fraudulent registration number and allegedly linked to the same manufacturer.
NAFDAC confirmed that none of these medicines are recorded in its official product database, classifying them as falsified drugs. The agency stressed that using fake Oxytocin injections can have devastating consequences.
Such products may contain incorrect dosages, be lacking in active ingredients, or contain harmful contaminants. This could lead to ineffective uterine contractions, uncontrolled postpartum haemorrhage (PPH), or, in severe cases, maternal death.
Poor-quality Oxytocin also risks failing to stop bleeding after childbirth, creating life-threatening complications that may require emergency intervention.
NAFDAC advises healthcare workers, distributors, and consumers to remain vigilant and report any suspected counterfeit medicines to the nearest NAFDAC office.
