NAFDAC destroys 828 bioflex infusion cartons after failed sterility tests

• Published On: 18 December 2024 at 08:50

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control destroyed 828 cartons of Bioflex infusions supplied by Biomedical Company Limited in Ilorin after they failed sterility tests.

The infusions were flagged in response to a consumer complaint from Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Shika.

The complaint, which mentioned the presence of suspended particles in the infusions, prompted an investigation by NAFDAC's North-West Zonal Office, resulting in the destruction of the products.

NAFDAC stated that laboratory testing confirmed that the products failed sterility tests, posing potential health risks to consumers.

On Tuesday, NAFDAC stated on its X handle that, "With the approval of the @DGatNAFDAC, the NWZ oversaw the forfeiture and subsequent destruction of the contaminated infusions."

"The products were removed from their secondary packaging, crushed, and buried, while the cartons were burnt to ensure complete disposal."

NAFDAC reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety and quality of medical products in Nigeria, and urged the public to report any suspicious products immediately for prompt regulatory action.

NAFDAC reported earlier this year that an unregistered brand of Ceftriaxone Sodium Injection, marketed as ZACEF-TZ Injection, was being sold in Nigeria.

The discovery was made following an investigation by the Federal Capital Territory's Post-Marketing Surveillance Unit in Abuja in response to a consumer complaint.

Ceftriaxone and Tazobactam Injection is a combination antibiotic that treats bacterial infections. However, NAFDAC warned that the illegal sale of substandard and falsified medicines endangers the public's health.

"The illegal marketing of substandard and falsified 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," claimed NAFDAC.

NAFDAC revealed that the NAFDAC Registration Number A-46344 displayed on ZACEF-TZ Injection is fraudulent and does not exist in its database.

Contaminated infusions can have severe and potentially fatal consequences, particularly for patients who are already vulnerable or immunocompromised.