Yaoundé, July 19, 2024 – The Ministry of Public Health in Cameroon through it Minister, Dr. Manaouda Malachi, on July 17, 2024 issued an urgent warning to the public regarding a counterfeit medication circulating in the market. The fake drug, labeled as "ACLAV 100mg/12.5 30ml," has been identified in the South and Center regional headquaters - Ebolowa and Yaounde respectively.
ACLAV is a common antibiotic, made up of a combination of two molecules (Amoxycillin and Clavulanic Acid) that is used to treat infections of the lungs (e.g., pneumonia), ear, nasal sinus, urinary tract, skin, and soft tissue - Benmed Pharmaceuticals.
The Ministry's investigation revealed that the medicine is a counterfeit of the original ACLAV, which is approved by the ministry, and does not contain the active ingredients as claimed on its label. Instead, it contains potentially harmful substances that can cause severe harmful effects to on human health.
This counterfeit of a homologous drug is dangerous and may have harmful effects on human health. - The Minister.
Investigating further, the ministry found out the following differences when compared to the original;
CHARACTERISTIC | ORIGINAL | COUNTERFEIT |
|---|---|---|
Primary packaging | Type III white glass bottle | Plastic bottle |
Secondary packaging | Light color code | Dark color code |
Measuring/dosing device | Measuring pipette | Measuring cup |
Expiry date | 09/2026 | 09/2026 |
Lot number | 5792 | 2974 or 2914 |
AMM number* | 6991001 valid until 2027 | No AMM number |
*AMM number is called the drug authorization number. Without it, a drug is not authorized.
On this note, the minister recommends total vigilance at the level of the country's drug supply chaine and a systematic control at the level of health facilities as a measure to kick the drug out of circulation. He further urges the populations to buy drugs only from authorized suppliers, and reminds that automedication and roadside medicines carry enormous risk on human health.
Stop Distribution and Consumption:
The Minister further urges all in position of this counerfeit drug to immediately cease it distribution or it consumptionand, and return it to the distribution site. He further advises anyone who might have consume this fake drug to immediately consult a competent healthcare provider and make sure to report to the Ministry through the department of Pharmacy, medicine, and Laboratory through info@dpml.cm and/or vigilancedpmlcmr@gmail.com.
Additionally, we advise the Ministry to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to track down the source of the counterfeit drug and bring those responsible to justice.
Stay informed, stay safe.
HELP Foundation, Cameroon
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