The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has vehemently refuted claims suggesting widespread under-dosing of paracetamol tablets in Nigeria. Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, the Director-General of NAFDAC, addressed the issue, emphasizing the agency’s scientific approach and commitment to upholding public health standards.

In response to recent publications alleging under-dosed paracetamol tablets in the country, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, a seasoned Scientist and Professor of Pharmaceutical Manufacturing and Drug Evaluation with 30 years of experience, expressed deep concern about the irresponsible impact of unscientific claims on Nigerian society. She stressed the need for factual and responsible reporting that considers the implications of such assertions.

NAFDAC conducted comprehensive testing of paracetamol tablets sampled from various pharmacy outlets in Lagos and Abuja. The sampling included tablets from 13 different local manufacturers. The rigorous testing covered a range of parameters including the uniformity of mass, average weight, friability, hardness, identification, and disintegration time. These tests aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the quality and dosage accuracy of the paracetamol tablets in question.

Prof. Adeyeye highlighted specific scientific discrepancies in the analysis that invalidated the initial claims. She pointed out that critical parameters, such as the concentration range of the standard curve solutions, did not align with the reported test solution concentrations, further discrediting the allegations of under-dosing. This scrutiny underscores NAFDAC’s meticulous and evidence-based approach to evaluating pharmaceutical products.

The Director-General affirmed the pharmaceutical manufacturing sector’s commitment to maintaining and improving product quality in line with NAFDAC’s stringent standards. She reassured the Nigerian populace of NAFDAC’s unwavering dedication to safeguarding public health and safety through thorough regulatory oversight.

NAFDAC’s swift and thorough response to the allegations reflects the agency’s dedication to upholding the integrity of pharmaceutical products in Nigeria. With a clear emphasis on scientific rigor and public welfare, NAFDAC’s stance serves as a testament to its unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and efficacy of healthcare products in the country.