NAFDAC Warns Against Falsified Knowit Insulin Syringes in Nigeria

National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a stern warning over the illegal distribution of the Knowit Insulin Syringe 40 IU 29G x 1/2, labeling the product substandard and falsified. The alert comes amid growing concerns over the circulation of medical devices that do not meet regulatory standards and pose serious health risks.

NAFDAC explains that the Knowit syringe was originally approved for use with Lente animal insulins administered at a 40 IU/ml concentration, when both 40 IU/ml and 100 IU/ml versions were in circulation. However, with the discontinuation of animal insulins and the widespread adoption of human insulin standardized at 100 IU/ml, the 40 IU/ml syringe is now obsolete. Its continued use could lead to dangerous dosing errors, potentially resulting in life-threatening complications for diabetic patients.

The agency further revealed that the product is being marketed under a falsified registration number (03-2933), as the original license expired in 2019. The distributor, Chivic Limited, is now under scrutiny as NAFDAC has directed all zonal directors and state coordinators to intensify surveillance efforts and remove the illegal product from the market.

NAFDAC urges importers, distributors, retailers, healthcare professionals, and consumers to exercise extreme caution. Authorities advise verifying the authenticity of all medical devices before use and to report any suspicious products or adverse events through official channels. Consumers can contact NAFDAC via its toll-free hotline at 0800-162-3322 or email sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng.

This decisive action underscores the agency’s commitment to safeguarding public health by ensuring that only approved and safe medical products are available in the market.