(DDM) – The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has dismissed a viral social media claim alleging that several commonly used antimalarial drugs have been banned in Nigeria.
DDM learns that the agency described the circulating information as false, misleading, and capable of causing unnecessary panic among the public.
The viral message, which included images of various paediatric antimalarial suspensions, urged Nigerians to alert their families about a supposed nationwide ban on the medications.
NAFDAC, however, clarified that no such blanket restriction has been placed on the listed drugs and stressed that the claim lacks any official backing.
The agency warned that the spread of unverified health information could disrupt access to essential medicines and create confusion, especially among caregivers and parents.
It explained that all pharmaceutical products in Nigeria undergo rigorous regulatory procedures before they are approved for public use.
These processes include registration, quality assurance checks, and continuous post-market surveillance to ensure safety and effectiveness.
NAFDAC stated that any drug found to be unsafe or substandard is formally announced and withdrawn through official communication channels.
The agency emphasised that such actions are never carried out through unofficial social media posts or unverified online messages.
Health authorities have expressed concern that misinformation surrounding critical treatments, particularly antimalarial drugs, could pose serious risks to public health.
The agency urged Nigerians to rely only on verified updates from its official platforms and recognised health institutions.
It also encouraged consumers to check registration numbers on drug packaging to confirm authenticity before use.
Members of the public were advised to report suspicious, fake, or unregistered products to the appropriate regulatory authorities for investigation.
NAFDAC reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the health of Nigerians by ensuring that only safe and effective medicines are available in the market.
The agency noted that false claims about essential drugs could have severe consequences, especially for vulnerable populations such as children who rely heavily on timely malaria treatment.
Public health experts have warned that panic-driven reactions to misinformation may lead to poor treatment decisions or delays in seeking proper medical care.
The development highlights the growing challenge of misinformation in the digital age, particularly in the health sector where accuracy is critical.
Authorities continue to call for greater public awareness and responsibility in sharing information, urging citizens to verify claims before disseminating them widely.
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