Falsified Avastin Cancer Injection Circulating in Kenya
Kenyan health authorities have identified a falsified batch of Avastin (Bevacizumab 100 mg) injection currently in circulation, prompting a nationwide alert to healthcare providers and the public.
The Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) announced today that Batch Number H0573B01 of the injection is falsely labeled as manufactured by Roche, a leading global provider of in-vitro diagnostics and innovative healthcare solutions. This counterfeit medication poses a serious risk to patients undergoing cancer treatment, as its efficacy and safety cannot be guaranteed.
“The board hereby instructs all procurement agencies, distributors, pharmacists, pharmaceutical technologies, healthcare workers and the public to stay alert and promptly report any cases involving the falsified batch of Avastin,” stated Dr. A. Mohamed, the Chief Executive Officer at the Ministry of Health. Avastin is a prescription medication used in the treatment of various types of cancer; understanding Bevacizumab and its proper use is critical for patient care.
The Ministry of Health is urging all stakeholders to source Health Products and Technologies (HPTs) exclusively from licensed suppliers and warned that legal and regulatory action will be taken against anyone involved in distributing the falsified batch, in violation of the Pharmacy and Poisons Act. The PPB encourages the public and healthcare providers to report any suspected substandard or falsified medical products immediately; more information on reporting can be found at the Pharmacy and Poisons Board website.
Authorities, in collaboration with government investigative agencies, will continue to investigate the source of the falsified medication and work to prevent further distribution.
