The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has alerted Nigerians to the circulation of a suspected counterfeit toothpaste, ORACIRE+ Toothpaste, being distributed in the country under the guise of the registered ORACARE+ Toothpaste.
In a statement published on social media on September 14, the agency said the alert followed a formal complaint and market intelligence report concerning the widespread distribution of the suspected counterfeit product.
NAFDAC said market surveillance conducted at Ojuwoye Market in Mushin, Lagos, showed that the suspected fake product closely resembles the registered ORACARE+ Toothpaste in its packaging and overall appearance, making it difficult for consumers to distinguish between the two.
The agency warned that the suspected counterfeit toothpaste may not meet established quality and safety standards and could pose health risks to consumers.
NAFDAC said it had commenced surveillance activities, while all zonal directors and state coordinators had been directed to investigate the availability and distribution of the suspected counterfeit product and take appropriate regulatory action.
The agency urged consumers, distributors, retailers and healthcare providers to exercise caution when purchasing ORACARE+ Toothpaste.
It advised consumers to purchase toothpaste only from reputable and authorised outlets and to carefully examine the product’s packaging and source before making a purchase.
NAFDAC also urged consumers and healthcare providers to report any suspected sale or distribution of counterfeit ORACIRE+ Toothpaste to the nearest NAFDAC office, call 0800-162-3322, email sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng, or use the Med Safety App, available on Android and iOS.
