NAFDAC Investigates Underdosing Claims In Nigerian Paracetamol Market

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has launched a market survey and laboratory testing of paracetamol brands in Nigeria following a recent study suggesting underdosing issues.

The study, published in 2023, found variations in the claimed and actual dosage of five paracetamol brands, with concentrations falling below the recommended 500mg.

NAFDAC Director General, Mojisola Adeyeye, in a statement on Monday, acknowledged the study but questioned its methodology and accuracy. To verify the claims, the agency initiated a nationwide survey to collect paracetamol samples for testing.

Adeyeye met with the Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Group (PMG) of the Manufacturing Association of Nigeria (MAN) to discuss the investigation.

She assured the public that NAFDAC is committed to maintaining quality and safety standards in medicines.

“We do yearly post-marketing survey of medicines to ensure that the quality and safety are maintained,” Adeyeye stated.

“We want to reiterate that NAFDAC has five ISO-17025 Laboratories across the country, and a WHO Prequalified Laboratory at Yaba Lagos where medicines are tested for quality and safety. The laboratories test medicines using official monographs of British Pharmacopeia, United States Pharmacopoeia, and International Pharmacopoeia.

“As soon as we finish the laboratory testing, we will update the public. NAFDAC wishes to reassure the public that the Agency is very vigilant in her responsibilities in safeguarding the health of the nation.

“It is on this basis that NAFDAC has been recognized by WHO as a stable, well-functioning agency, and by other international partners as an organisation that places premium on the quality, safety and efficacy of medicines, food, and other regulated products.”