Nigeria’s food and drug regulator on Monday warned the public about a suspected counterfeit toothpaste being sold under the name ORACIRE+ TOOTHPASTE, which closely mimics the registered ORACARE+ product.
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) issued the alert following a formal complaint and market intelligence reports of widespread distribution of the fake product.
Surveillance at Ojuwoye Market in Mushin, Lagos, found that the counterfeit closely resembles the genuine ORACARE+ Toothpaste in packaging design and appearance, making it hard for consumers to tell them apart.
NAFDAC said the fake product may fail to meet quality and safety standards and could pose health risks if used.
The agency has ordered all zonal directors and state coordinators to investigate the product’s availability and distribution and to take appropriate regulatory action.
It urged consumers, distributors, retailers and healthcare providers to exercise caution.
“Purchase toothpaste products only from reputable and authorised outlets. Carefully examine product packaging and source of supply before purchase,” NAFDAC said in a statement.
Anyone who suspects the sale of the counterfeit ORACIRE+ Toothpaste should report it to the nearest NAFDAC office, call 0800-162-3322, email sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng, or use the Med Safety App available on Android and iOS.
