The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a public alert on the circulation of a falsified antibiotic, BETACLOX (Ampicillin 250mg and Cloxacillin 250mg), found in Nigeria’s drug supply chain.
According to NAFDAC, the counterfeit product carries fraudulent registration details and originated from an unverified source, posing serious public health risks. The drug was traced from Gambori Market in Maiduguri, Borno State, through a distributor in Kano, before being flagged by a retail outlet in Zaria, Kaduna State.
Investigations revealed that the NAFDAC registration number (A4-4724) printed on the fake packaging actually belongs to another product, Mebendazole 500mg, manufactured by Chi Ltd, indicating a misappropriation of registration credentials.
The packaging also falsely lists Freeview Pharmaceutical Ltd as the importer, with a fake address (No. 128 MCC Road, Calabar). Verification shows the company’s registered address is No. 101 MCC Road, further confirming the falsification.
BETACLOX is an antibiotic used to treat infections of the respiratory tract, urinary tract, skin, and gastrointestinal system. NAFDAC warned that the fake version could cause treatment failure, worsen infections, and accelerate antimicrobial resistance.
The agency reiterated that the sale of unregistered or falsified medicines endangers public health and undermines confidence in the pharmaceutical supply chain. Nigerians were urged to avoid unverified drug sources and report suspicious medicines to NAFDAC offices nationwide.
Product details:
- Name: BETACLOX (Ampicillin 250mg + Cloxacillin 250mg)
- Fake Importer: Freeview Pharmaceutical Ltd
- Fake Address: No. 128 MCC Road, Calabar, Cross River State
- Manufacturer (claimed): Saeny Laboratory Pvt. Ltd., Kerala, India
- Batch No.: 230701 | Mfg Date: 07/2023 | Exp Date: 07/2026
- Fake NAFDAC Reg. No.: A4-4724
NAFDAC reminded the public that counterfeit medicines, including Postinor-2, Chloroquine Phosphate, and Trastuzumab (Herceptin®), have recently been detected in circulation, underscoring the urgent need for vigilance and stronger supply chain monitoring.
