Kenya Issues Alert Over Falsified SIMULECT Drug

Kenya’s Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) has issued a public alert warning against falsified versions of SIMULECT (basiliximab), an injectable immunosuppressive drug critical for preventing kidney transplant rejection. This warning comes after the World Health Organization (WHO) circulated an alert regarding the counterfeiting of this vital medication.

The falsified SIMULECT has been reported in several countries including Rwanda, Bulgaria, and Türkiye. Concerns arise from the product bearing an invalid batch number—SFYD2—as well as numerous discrepancies when compared to authentic packaging. These include incorrect dosage labeling, inconsistent details about the manufacturing origin, and the misuse of a US National Drug Code.

Despite these alarming findings, the PPB has stated that it has not detected or confirmed the presence of this particular batch, SFYD2, within the Kenyan market. Nevertheless, the board urges healthcare providers and the public to remain vigilant against counterfeit medications that may endanger patient health.

Counterfeit drugs continue to be a significant risk to public health globally. The PPB emphasized the importance of sourcing medications from licensed pharmacies and trusted suppliers to mitigate such risks. Consumers are advised to verify the authenticity of medications before administration, especially for critical drugs like SIMULECT.

As health authorities around the world work to combat the proliferation of counterfeit pharmaceuticals, collaboration with international organizations such as the WHO remains essential in safeguarding public health. The PPB’s timely alert serves as a crucial reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by falsified medicines.

For further information, the public may consult the PPB or healthcare professionals about the authenticity of their medications.

By Newsroom
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.