National Hospital in Abuja has confirmed the deaths of two adult patients who experienced serious adverse events after being administered Fortcef Injection, a brand of Ceftazidime. According to an internal memo dated September 10, 2026, the hospital's Pharmacovigilance Committee identified the adverse events. The memo, signed by Dr. O. Lawal, Director of Clinical Services and Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee, was obtained exclusively by Leadership newspaper. The hospital has heightened surveillance of the drug, particularly for Ceftazidime sourced from outside the hospital.
The two patients who died were adults who were relatively stable before receiving the Fortcef Injection. The hospital's memo did not provide further details about the patients' conditions or medical histories. However, it emphasized that the serious adverse events were suspected to be linked to the administration of the drug. The hospital has directed all clinical units and departments to monitor the use of Ceftazidime, especially Fortcef Injection 1g, batch number PEZIE001.
The affected product, Fortcef Injection 1g, was manufactured in May 2025 and is due to expire in April 2028. It has a NAFDAC registration number of C4-0247. The hospital has reported the cases to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). Clinicians have been directed to promptly report any suspected adverse drug reactions to the Pharmacovigilance Committee.
The development follows a viral voice note purportedly recorded by a nurse at the hospital, raising concerns over deaths allegedly occurring after patients were administered Fortcef. However, the internal memo did not support the allegation of four deaths contained in the viral claim. Instead, it documented serious adverse events involving two adult patients.
The hospital's decision to issue an internal surveillance alert and report the cases to NAFDAC indicates that the suspected adverse drug reactions are being subjected to pharmacovigilance investigation. This move aims to ensure the safety of patients and to identify any potential risks associated with the use of Ceftazidime.
The Pharmacovigilance Committee at National Hospital plays a crucial role in monitoring and reporting adverse drug reactions. The committee's efforts help to identify potential safety concerns and prevent similar incidents in the future. By reporting the cases to NAFDAC, the hospital is contributing to the national effort to ensure the safety and efficacy of medicines.
The incident highlights the importance of pharmacovigilance and the need for healthcare institutions to be vigilant in monitoring the safety of medicines. Patients and healthcare providers are encouraged to report any suspected adverse drug reactions to the relevant authorities. The investigation into the suspected adverse drug reactions is ongoing, and further updates are expected to be provided as more information becomes available.
Key points
- National Hospital Abuja has confirmed two deaths linked to Fortcef Injection, prompting heightened surveillance of the drug.
- The hospital has reported the cases to NAFDAC and directed clinicians to promptly report any suspected adverse drug reactions.
- The incident highlights the importance of pharmacovigilance in ensuring the safety of medicines.
