Consignments Of Fake Viagra and Alomo Bitters intercepted by NAFDAC

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), has intercepted huge consignments of fake aphrodisiacs, known as Heragra and Ziagra, peddled in the market as remedies for erectile dysfunction.

Manufacturers of the fake drugs target users of the popular Viagra.

In another development, officials of the agency acting on a tip-off, also intercepted five containers of counterfeit drugs and products, including counterfeit Alomo Bitters, Diclofenac and Tramadol. The four 40ft containers and 20ft container of fake drugs and products were valued at N270 million.

Director-General of NAFDAC, Dr. Paul Orhii, who announced the seizures and the arrest of one Kanayo Onyeabor alleged to be behind the importation of the drugs, said consumption of the drugs could result in chest pain, uncomfortable penile disfunction, heart attack and even death. According to Orhii, the Viagra brand of sildenafil citrate tablets is usually registered in 25mg, 50mg and 100mg but the intercepted unregistered Heragra and Ziagra came in a strength of 120mg.

“These products are known drugs of misuse and abuse which can result in serious health problems such as increased blood pressure (BP), stroke, ulceration of the gastro-intestinal tract, tolerance and dependence.

He added that sildenafil citrate tablet is a “Prescription Only Medication (POM) for managing erectile disfunction while Tramadol is also a POM for managing severe pain and under strict control in Nigeria.

“These products have not been tested and certified by NAFDAC. Therefore, their quality and safety are not guaranteed,” Orhii said.

“But for the timely intervention of NAFDAC, it would have found its way into circulation,” the NAFDAC Director-General added.