ALERT: NAFDAC warns against fake Tandak injection in Nigeria

The National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has warned Nigerians against the sale of counterfeit Tandak injection of 1.5g powder and water. 

Tandak injection of 1.5g powder, manufactured by Intracin Pharmaceuticals, Gujarat, India, is a co-formulation of ceftriaxone 1000mg and sulbactam 500mg.

It is prescribed for the treatment of various types of bacterial infections.

In a statement on Wednesday, NAFDAC said the counterfeit was discovered in Gombe state, and reported to the agency by Marcson Healthcare Ltd., the marketing authorisation holder (MAH).

“The illegal marketing of counterfeit medicines poses a risk to the health of people, since by not complying with the regulatory provisions, the safety, quality, and efficacy of the products are not guaranteed,” the statement reads.

The agency said the fake injection has a batch number of 22P21, manufacturing date of May 2022, and expiration date of August 2026.

It said the fake product does not have a hologram on the primary carton, has an incorrect exporter logo, has a white vial cap and has a photocopied mobile authentication service label.

“NAFDAC has directed all zonal directors and state coordinators to carry out surveillance and mop up the counterfeit products within the zones and states,” the statement reads.

“Importers, distributors, retailers, healthcare professionals, and caregivers are hereby advised to exercise caution and vigilance within the supply chain to avoid the importation, distribution, sale, and use of the counterfeit products.

“All medical products must be obtained from authorized/licensed suppliers. The products’ authenticity and physical condition should be carefully checked.

“Healthcare professionals and consumers are advised to report any suspicion of the sale of substandard and falsified medicines or medical devices to the nearest NAFDAC office, NAFDAC on 0800-162-3322 or via email: [email protected].”