Nigerians are being warned not to use Ciprofit 500 (Ciprofloxacin Tablet USP 500mg) after NAFDAC confirmed the product is falsified and unsafe.

The packaging claims it was produced by Impact Pharmaceutical Ltd., Emene-Enugu State, but NAFDAC has confirmed the drug is not registered in its official database. The registration number printed on the box is fake.

What the Tests Showed

WHO-approved laboratory tests revealed that the tablets contain only 5.7% of Ciprofloxacin, instead of the required 90–110%.

This means the drug is basically ineffective and cannot treat infections.

Why This Is Dangerous

Ciprofloxacin is a powerful antibiotic used for many infections, including:

• Urinary tract infections

• Respiratory tract infections

• Gastrointestinal infections

• Skin and soft tissue infections

• Sexually transmitted infections

Using a fake version like Ciprofit 500 can:

• Make infections worse or harder to treat.

• Fuel antimicrobial resistance.

• Put patients at risk of severe complications.

Pattern of Recent Recalls

The recall of Ciprofit 500 (Ciprofloxacin Tablet USP 500mg) adds to a troubling list of recent counterfeit and substandard product alerts in Nigeria, including:

• Amoxivue – falsified antibiotic in circulation

• Postinor-2 – fake emergency contraceptives threatening women’s health

• Cowbell Milk – counterfeit products with forged NAFDAC registration numbers

• Oxytocin injections – falsified maternal health drugs linked to life-threatening complications

This pattern reflects a growing challenge in Nigeria’s drug and consumer product supply chain, necessitating heightened vigilance among healthcare providers, pharmacists, and consumers

What Healthcare Professionals Should Do

• Stop dispensing or prescribing Ciprofit 500.

• Report suspected stock to NAFDAC immediately.

• Educate patients about the risks of fake antibiotics.

What Patients Should Do

• Do not buy or use Ciprofit 500.

• Verify all medicines on the NAFDAC portal before use.

• Report any suspicious antibiotics to the nearest NAFDAC office.

Me & You Pharma’s Commitment

At Me & You Pharma, we recognize that counterfeit and substandard drugs erode trust, exacerbate health outcomes, and jeopardize lives. Nigerians face increasing threats from fake products.

We are committed to keeping you informed, empowered, 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.

Join the Me & You Pharma WhatsApp community today to receive verified health tips, medicine safety alerts, and expert pharmacist advice directly on your phone. Your health and safety come first. Let’s fight fake medicines together.