NAFDAC Confirms Arrest of Marketer Behind Recalled Amoxycillin Capsules
The Director General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, announced on Thursday that the Managing Director of Divine Kings Pharmaceutical Limited, Kingsley Ekeanyanwu, has been arrested in connection with the suspected substandard Deekins Amoxycillin 500mg capsules.
This follows a widespread investigation into the drug, which had been linked to serious adverse drug reactions experienced by patients across the country.
Adeyeye emphasized that NAFDAC is committed to taking action against bad actors and is thoroughly investigating the case, including inspecting the manufacturer, Ecomed Pharma Ltd. NAFDAC had previously recalled the affected batch of Deekins Amoxycillin 500mg following reports of severe adverse reactions.
The investigation revealed discrepancies in the batch records provided by Ecomed Pharma Ltd, with the manufacturer claiming to have only produced a limited number of capsules while a larger quantity was distributed. Adeyeye confirmed that the capsules from Batch 4C639001 were recalled after it was found that they had been distributed despite not meeting proper manufacturing standards.
As part of the ongoing investigation, the agency has sampled the affected products for laboratory analysis. Additionally, the Quality Control and Production Managers have been invited for further questioning, and the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria has been notified. NAFDAC has issued a public warning, urging healthcare providers, distributors, and patients to be cautious and avoid using the affected batch of Deekins Amoxycillin. The agency has also asked those in possession of the product to return it to the nearest NAFDAC office.
Consumers and healthcare professionals are advised to report any adverse reactions or suspicions regarding substandard or falsified medicines to NAFDAC. The agency has provided contact details for reporting such incidents and continues to monitor the situation closely. NAFDAC’s investigation is ongoing, with laboratory tests and further actions pending, while ensuring that the public remains informed and protected from unsafe medical products.
