The Nigerian government, through the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), has initiated an investigation into reported serious and life-threatening adverse reactions associated with Fortcef Injection (Ceftazidime). This investigation follows allegations made by a whistleblower, Nurse Lucy, who claimed that four patients died at the National Hospital, Abuja, after receiving the drug.
The National Hospital, Abuja, has confirmed that its staff administered the drug to some patients but disputes the number of fatalities, reporting only two deaths. In contrast, NAFDAC has confirmed three fatalities from multiple healthcare facilities in the cases currently under investigation. Fortcef Injection is an intravenous antibiotic used to treat serious bacterial infections.
NAFDAC has issued a classified safety communication to pharmacies and hospitals nationwide, dated September 14, 2026, alerting them to reports of acute reactions following administration of the injection. The reported reactions include vomiting, chest pain, confusion, loss of consciousness, restlessness, gasping, flaccidity, and unresponsiveness.
The investigation has identified two batches of Fortcef Injection — PFZIE001 and OFZIE001 — as being implicated in the reports received so far. The National Hospital, Abuja, has taken steps to address the issue, directing all clinicians to heighten surveillance in the use of ceftazidime brands sourced from outside the hospital, particularly Fortcef Injection 1g, batch number PFZIE001.
An internal clinical surveillance memo by the National Hospital, Abuja, revealed that two adult patients died following the administration of Fortcef Injection procured from outside the hospital. The incidents occurred on August 24, 2026, and September 9, 2026, and the patients were “otherwise relatively stable” before receiving the drug.
The hospital's Pharmacovigilance Committee has identified the serious adverse drug reaction and directed clinicians to promptly report suspected adverse reactions. Healthcare workers are urged to remain vigilant when administering the drug and to monitor patients closely for any signs of adverse reactions.
NAFDAC's investigation aims to determine the cause of the adverse reactions and to take necessary actions to prevent similar incidents in the future. The agency is working closely with healthcare facilities to gather more information and to ensure that the necessary steps are taken to protect public health.
Key points
- NAFDAC confirms three fatalities from multiple healthcare facilities in the cases under investigation.
- The National Hospital, Abuja, reports two deaths following administration of Fortcef Injection.
- The investigation has identified two batches of Fortcef Injection — PFZIE001 and OFZIE001 — as being implicated in the reports received so far.
