The Algerian National Pharmaceutical Products Agency (ANPP) has issued a warning against a counterfeit botulinum toxin product, DYSPORT, which is being circulated in the country. The product, which is a powder for injection, is labeled as containing 500 units of botulinum toxin type A and has a batch number of S05061, with an expiration date of 02/2028. The ANPP has identified the product as a fake, stating that it was never manufactured by the British laboratory IPSEN Biopharm Ltd.
The ANPP has raised concerns about the product's authenticity, citing anomalies in the QR code printed on the packaging and the fact that the batch number does not match any records from IPSEN Biopharm Ltd. The agency has classified the product as having an unknown origin and has suspected it of being counterfeit. The ANPP has urged healthcare professionals and the general public to exercise caution when purchasing, storing, and administering the product.
The counterfeit product has been used outside of its authorized therapeutic indications, which is a serious concern, according to the ANPP. The agency has emphasized that botulinum toxin is a powerful substance that requires careful dosing and a controlled environment to administer safely. If not used properly, it can cause serious neurological and respiratory complications.
The ANPP has called on healthcare professionals to verify the authenticity of the product and ensure that it comes from an authorized distributor with proper documentation. This alert is part of a broader effort to strengthen national pharmaceutical control, which has included stricter conditions for the marketing of imported medications.
Counterfeit medications, including botulinum toxin, pose a significant risk to public health, as they can be ineffective, contain unknown substances, or have incorrect dosages. The ANPP has noted that parallel distribution networks, including online sales and informal imports, contribute to the proliferation of counterfeit products.
The ANPP is relying on reporting and vigilance to quickly identify suspect products and prevent their distribution. Patients are advised to demand product traceability and refuse any treatment administered outside of a legally authorized structure. The agency has urged anyone in possession of the counterfeit product to stop using it and report it.
The ANPP's warning is part of a broader effort to combat counterfeit medications in Algeria. In July, the agency announced stricter conditions for the marketing of imported medications, including requirements that treatments be prescribed or validated in their country of origin or by several foreign markets.
Key points
- The ANPP has identified a counterfeit botulinum toxin product, DYSPORT, which is being circulated in Algeria, posing serious health risks.
- The product has been used outside of its authorized therapeutic indications, which is a serious concern, according to the ANPP.
- The ANPP is urging healthcare professionals and the general public to exercise caution when purchasing, storing, and administering the product.
