The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has dismissed circulating claims that it has secretly banned the antibiotic Amoxicillin in Nigeria. In a public notice posted on its X Platform on Monday, the agency clarified that the information is entirely false.
NAFDAC explained that while it regularly issues safety alerts and recalls for specific substandard or affected batches of medicines, these are targeted actions and do not represent a blanket ban on any drug category. The agency emphasized that its official communications, including recalls, safety alerts, and blacklists, provide precise information such as product names, batch numbers, manufacturers, and instructions for healthcare providers and patients.
The agency highlighted recent targeted interventions as examples. In August 2025, Public Alert No. 24/2025 recalled Amoxivue 500mg capsules due to low active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) content. Additionally, in October 2025, Public Alerts Nos. 34 and 35 addressed substandard batches of Astamocil, Astamentin, Annmox, and Jawamox suspensions. NAFDAC noted that these measures were specific to certain batches and products, and in no way constitute a nationwide ban on Amoxicillin.
NAFDAC urged Nigerians, healthcare professionals, and stakeholders to rely solely on verified updates from official agency channels to avoid misinformation and unnecessary panic. The agency reassured the public that it remains committed to ensuring the safety, efficacy, and quality of medicines available in Nigeria.
By providing accurate information and clarifying misconceptions, NAFDAC aims to reinforce trust in regulatory processes while safeguarding public health. The agency continues to monitor the pharmaceutical market and take swift action against substandard or unsafe products to protect patients across the country.
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