By Jemimah Wellington, JKNewsMedia Reporter
THE NATIONAL Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has launched an investigation into reports of suspected substandard Deekins Amoxycillin 500mg capsules.
Manufactured by Ecomed Pharma Ltd and marketed by Devine Kings Pharmaceutical Ltd, the batch in question, 4C639001, has been linked to serious adverse drug reactions.
Patients across the country reported adverse effects after consuming the capsules. A hospital flagged three cases directly tied to this batch, prompting further scrutiny.
In response, the Marketing Authorisation Holder, Mr Kingsley Ekeanyanwu of Devine Kings Pharmaceutical Ltd, clarified that the products were sourced from Ecomed Pharma Ltd.
However, the manufacturer claims to have produced only 20 packets of batch 4C639001 for registration renewal, while 790 packs with identical details were allegedly recalled without their involvement.
NAFDAC has sampled the products for laboratory analysis. Quality control and production managers have been summoned, while the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria has been notified. Investigations are ongoing to determine the source of the discrepancies.
In the meantime, NAFDAC has urged distributors, healthcare providers, and the public to avoid using the affected lot.
Patients are advised to verify the authenticity of their medications and obtain them only from licensed suppliers.
Any adverse reactions should be reported immediately to NAFDAC through designated channels, including their toll-free line, email, or mobile applications.
This development underscores the importance of vigilance within Nigeria’s pharmaceutical supply chain.
NAFDAC has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding public health and has escalated this alert to the World Health Organisation’s Global Surveillance and Monitoring System.
