Fake Artemetrin DS (Anti-Malaria) Tablets Found in Nigeria
Fake Artemetrin DS Tablets Found in Nigeria
Last updated on September 10, 2025
⚠ NAFDAC warns Nigerians to stop using Artemetrin DS tablets after confirming the product is falsified and unsafe.
Product Details
| Product Name | Artemetrin DS (Artemether 80mg + Lumefantrine 480mg) |
|---|---|
| Stated Manufacturer | A.C. Drugs Ltd., Plot C5/C6 Old Airport Road, Emene-Enugu State, Nigeria |
| Stated NAFDAC Reg. No. | A4-3164 (Fake) |
| Batch Affected | All batches |
| Packaging Language | English/French |
| Laboratory Findings | 59.2% Artemether; 71.2% Lumefantrine (below 90–110% standard) |
| Intended Use | Treatment of acute, uncomplicated malaria in adults and children |
| Risks | Treatment failure, malaria complications, spread of drug-resistant malaria |
Laboratory Results
The product was tested at a WHO-prequalified laboratory with the following results:
- Artemether content: 59.2% (far below the 90–110% standard)
- Lumefantrine content: 71.2% (below the accepted 90–110% range)
These results confirm the medicine is substandard and unsafe for treating malaria.
Health Risks
Artemether/Lumefantrine is a vital treatment for acute, uncomplicated malaria. Using falsified tablets can lead to:
- Treatment failure
- Severe malaria complications
- Spread of drug-resistant malaria
What Healthcare Professionals Should Do
- Check inventories and withdraw all Artemetrin DS stock
- Do not dispense the falsified product
- Report suspected cases to NAFDAC
- Counsel patients on safe malaria treatment options
What Patients Should Do
- Stop using Artemetrin DS immediately
- Verify NAFDAC registration numbers before buying medicines
- Report suspicious products to NAFDAC or a pharmacist
Pattern of Recent Recalls
This recall adds to a troubling list of recent counterfeit and substandard products in Nigeria, including:
- Amoxivue – falsified antibiotic
- Postinor-2 – fake emergency contraceptive
- Cowbell Milk – counterfeit with forged NAFDAC registration
- Oxytocin injections – falsified maternal health drug
Me & You Pharma’s Commitment
At Me & You Pharma, we recognize that counterfeit and substandard drugs erode trust, worsen health outcomes, and put lives at risk. Nigerians face increasing threats from fake products, and we are committed to keeping you informed and protected with pharmacist-led education and verified health updates.
Stay Informed, Stay Safe
Counterfeit and substandard medicines remain a public health emergency in Nigeria. Staying informed is your first defense.
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