The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has sounded the alarm over the illegal circulation of substandard and falsified insulin syringes in Nigeria.
In a statement released on Monday, the agency specifically warned against the continued use of the Knowit Insulin Syringe 40 IU 29G x 1/2, emphasizing that its use poses a serious risk to diabetic patients due to potential dosing errors.
Health Risks of Outdated Syringes
The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria has also raised concerns about the ongoing use of outdated 40 IU/ML insulin syringes, despite the availability of the standardized 100 IU/ML syringes, which are now the approved standard for human insulin administration.
NAFDAC explained that the 40 IU/ML syringes were initially approved for use when Lente animal insulins were available in both 40 IU/ML and 100 IU/ML strengths.
However, with the discontinuation of animal insulins, the 40 IU/ML syringes have become obsolete and are no longer registered by the agency.
Using these outdated syringes for 100 IU/ML insulin can lead to serious dosing errors, which may cause life-threatening complications for diabetic patients.
NAFDAC’s Response and Public Alert
To tackle this public health threat, NAFDAC has directed its zonal directors and state coordinators to launch surveillance operations aimed at identifying and removing these substandard insulin syringes from circulation.
The agency is also calling on importers, distributors, retailers, healthcare professionals, and caregivers to remain vigilant and help prevent the importation, distribution, and sale of these dangerous syringes.
This warning serves as a crucial reminder for diabetic patients to ensure they are using the correct insulin syringes and to always consult healthcare professionals before purchasing medical supplies.
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