The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, has warned Nigerians about the circulation of counterfeit Noristerat Injection 200mg in parts of the country.
In a statement issued on Monday via its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, the agency said the fake contraceptive product had been discovered in Niger, Bauchi, and Kano States, particularly at the Coordinated Wholesale Centre in Kano.
“The counterfeit Noristerat Injection 200mg has been found in Kano, Bauchi, and Niger States. This poses a serious health risk as unsuspecting women may be using a product that offers no contraceptive protection,” NAFDAC stated.
The agency revealed that the fake product was repackaged from Chlorpheniramine and Dexamethasone injection ampoules, making it ineffective for birth control.
NAFDAC confirmed that the counterfeiter behind the illegal repackaging had been tracked and arrested, assuring Nigerians that efforts were ongoing to remove the fake product from circulation.
“We have successfully tracked and arrested the counterfeiter behind this dangerous act. The agency remains committed to ensuring that only genuine and safe medical products are available to the public,” the statement read.
To help consumers identify the fake product, NAFDAC listed its details: Registration Number: 04-5715, Manufacturing Date: September 2022, Expiry Date: September 2027, Lot Number: KT02TTK
Genuine Noristerat 200mg is a contraceptive injection designed to provide eight weeks of pregnancy protection for short-term birth control. However, NAFDAC warned that the counterfeit version could lead to unintended pregnancies and other health risks.
The agency urged healthcare providers, pharmacists, and the general public to be vigilant and report any suspected counterfeit products.
“We call on healthcare providers, pharmacists, and the general public to report any suspicious Noristerat Injection to NAFDAC. Your cooperation is vital in protecting public health,” the statement added.
NAFDAC reaffirmed its commitment to public safety, pledging stricter surveillance measures to prevent similar incidents.
It advised Nigerians to visit its official website or contact its offices nationwide for further information.