NAFDAC Raises Alarm Over Fake Dettol Soap Sales

NAFDAC Warns of Fake Dettol

“The product was reported to have caused skin irritation to the complainant...”

NAFDAC warns of fake Dettol Health Fresh Soap in Nigeria, urges caution when buying medical products. Learn how to identify genuine products.

NAFDAC has issued a warning about a fake soap circulating in Nigeria, labeled as “Dettol Health Fresh Soap.” The complainant who reported this product didn't provide full details, but the manufacturer, Reckitt Benckiser Nigeria Limited, confirmed it's fake since they don't produce any product by that name.

The fake soap came to light after a consumer complained about experiencing skin irritation from using it. Upon investigation, Reckitt Benckiser confirmed that they do not produce any product by that name.

What You Need to Know:

The Fake Product: Dettol Health Fresh Soap is not a legitimate product from Reckitt Benckiser Nigeria Limited.

Risks: Using fake or substandard products can pose serious health risks, as their safety, quality, and efficacy are not guaranteed.

“The Marketing Authorisation Holder ( MAH) and manufacturer (Reckitt Benckiser Nigeria Limited) of Dettol Antiseptic products, received a consumer complaint regarding the above- mentioned product.

“The product was reported to have caused skin irritation to the complainant.

“The MAH has confirmed that the product is fake as they do not have any product by the name Dett Health Fresh Soap.

“Dettol Antiseptic products are widely used in Nigeria for household disinfection and personal hygiene to prevent illnesses from germs (bacterial infection),” it said.

The illegal marketing of fake or unregulated products poses serious health risks to consumers. Since these products don't meet regulatory standards, their safety, quality, and effectiveness can't be guaranteed. This is particularly concerning, as Dettol Antiseptic products are widely used in Nigeria for household disinfection and personal hygiene to prevent illnesses from germs.

NAFDAC's Response

To address this issue, NAFDAC has directed its zonal directors and state coordinators to conduct surveillance and remove the fake product from the market. The agency urges importers, distributors, retailers, healthcare professionals, caregivers, and consumers to exercise caution and vigilance within the supply chain.

To ensure safety and efficacy, always source medical products from authorized and licensed suppliers. Verify the authenticity and inspect the physical condition of products before purchase.

When buying medical products, follow these guidelines:

• •Obtain products from reputable pharmacies, hospitals, or licensed distributors.
• Check expiration dates, batch numbers, and manufacturing dates.
• Inspect packaging for damage, tampering, or irregularities.
• Verify product labels and instructions for accuracy.

Remember, counterfeit or substandard medical products can pose serious health risks. Protect yourself by purchasing from trusted sources and being vigilant about product authenticity.

Reporting Suspicious Products

Healthcare professionals and consumers are advised to report any suspicion of the sale of substandard and falsified medicines or medical products to the nearest NAFDAC office. If you suspect a product is fake or substandard, report it to NAFDAC on 0800-162-3322 or via email: sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng. You can also report adverse events or side effects related to medicinal products or devices to the nearest NAFDAC office or through their website.

“Similarly, healthcare professionals and patients are also encouraged to report adverse events or side effects related to the use of medicinal products or devices to the nearest NAFDAC office, or through the use of the E-reporting platforms available on the NAFDAC available on the NAFDAC website www.nafdac.gov.ng or via the Med-safety application available for download on android and IOS stores or via e-mail on pharmacovigilance@nafdac.gov.ng”