NAFDAC Warns Against Illegal Insulin Syringes in Nigeria
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has raised an alarm over the illegal distribution of Knowit Insulin Syringe 40 IU 29G x 1/2 in Nigeria. The agency warns that these substandard and falsified syringes could cause serious dosing errors for diabetic patients.
In a statement on Monday, NAFDAC explained that the 40 IU/ML insulin syringes were originally used for Lente animal insulins, which are now phased out. The standard insulin syringe currently approved for use is 100 IU/ML, making the 40 IU/ML syringe outdated and unregistered.
The agency stressed the dangers of using these syringes, stating:
“The use of a 40 IU/ML syringe to administer 100 IU/ML insulin increases the risk of dosing errors, as most patients cannot reliably calculate the necessary dosage adjustments.”
The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria has also raised concerns about the continued sale of these outdated syringes, despite the availability of the standard version.
To combat the circulation of the illegal product, NAFDAC has instructed its zonal directors and state coordinators to conduct market surveillance and remove the syringes from pharmacies and healthcare centers.
Additionally, importers, distributors, retailers, healthcare professionals, and caregivers have been urged to stay alert and stop the sale of the falsified insulin syringes to protect public health.
