The National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a public alert regarding the presence of counterfeit Dostinex (Cabergolin) 0.5mg tablets in circulation. The alert was prompted by a complaint received from Pfizer Specialties Limited, the manufacturer of the authentic product, regarding a patient’s concern.
Although a laboratory analysis has not been conducted on the counterfeit Dostinex as the complainant did not submit a sample, Pfizer scrutinized the pictures of the product provided by the complainant and made several troubling observations. One of the notable discrepancies was the shape of the tablets, which did not correspond to the genuine Dostinex tablets.
The expiration date indicated within the Data-Matrix was recorded as 24/08/2012, contradicting the expiry date printed on the box as 08/2024. Based on these inconsistencies, Pfizer has determined that the product is counterfeit, as it fails to meet the specifications of genuine Dostinex 0.5mg tablets produced by Pfizer.
Dostinex contains cabergoline as its active ingredient, which is primarily used to treat various medical conditions associated with excessive prolactin hormone production. It is commonly prescribed for menstrual problems, fertility issues in both men and women, and pituitary prolactinomas (tumors in the pituitary gland). Additionally, Dostinex can be administered to prevent lactation in women after childbirth.
NAFDAC, in collaboration with Pfizer, urges the public to exercise caution when purchasing Dostinex 0.5mg tablets and to be vigilant for any signs of counterfeits. Consumers are advised to carefully examine the packaging, verify the authenticity of the product with authorized sources, and consult healthcare professionals if there are any concerns or suspicions regarding the medication.
The agency emphasizes its commitment to ensuring public health and safety, urging individuals who come across counterfeit Dostinex or any other suspicious pharmaceutical products to report such instances to NAFDAC for further investigation and necessary action. By remaining vigilant and informed, the public can contribute to the eradication of counterfeit drugs and safeguard their well-being.
