NAFDAC warns of suspected counterfeit asthma medication in Nigerian market

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a public alert regarding a suspected counterfeit asthma medication found in the Nigerian market. The agency warned that the use of the falsified product, Ulmicort 0.5 mg/ml Inhalation Suspension, could result in treatment failure and other severe health consequences.

NAFDAC was informed by the pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca that the suspected counterfeit product closely mimics its registered asthma medicine, Pulmicort (Budesonide) Nebulising Suspension. Pulmicort is a crucial inhaled corticosteroid used to manage chronic asthma symptoms like wheezing and shortness of breath. The agency cautioned that counterfeit medicines often fail to meet essential quality, safety, and efficacy standards, potentially containing incorrect or insufficient active ingredients, harmful contaminants, or none at all.

"The use of such products can result in treatment failure, worsening of respiratory conditions, unexpected adverse effects and other serious health consequences," NAFDAC stated. Asthma, a chronic respiratory disease, requires consistent treatment to control symptoms such as coughing, chest tightness, and breathing difficulties.

The suspected counterfeit Ulmicort, bearing batch number 25770416E and manufactured in June 2025 with an expiry date of May 2027, was reportedly discovered in Eastern Nigeria. NAFDAC traced it to a distributor at 15 Chizzon, Awada, Obosi North, Anambra State. The product is labeled as manufactured by Legency Remedies PVT Ltd in India. NAFDAC has launched an investigation into the product's origin and distribution network and has directed its zonal offices to increase surveillance and conduct nationwide mop-up operations.

NAFDAC urged consumers and healthcare professionals to purchase medications exclusively from licensed pharmacies and authorized distributors. They should also carefully examine product labels and packaging. The public is encouraged to report any suspected counterfeit or substandard medicines to the nearest NAFDAC office.

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The use of such products can result in treatment failure, worsening of respiratory conditions, unexpected adverse effects and other serious health consequences.