NAFDAC Issues Urgent Warning on Counterfeit Postinor-2 in Nigeria

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a public alert about circulating counterfeit Postinor-2 (Levonorgestrel 0.75mg), a commonly used emergency contraceptive, in Nigeria.

According to Public Alert No. 027/2025, two types of counterfeit versions of this drug have been discovered in the market, raising serious health concerns. This alert follows a report from the Society for Family Health, the registered marketing authorisation holder, stating that they did not import the affected product batches.

Key Identifiers of the Counterfeit Product: The PIN verification sticker on the counterfeit product features a smaller font size, and the word “Verify” is misspelt as “Veify.”
The packaging contains a spelling mistake, with “Distributed in Nigeria” incorrectly written as “Distnibuted in Nigeria.”

NAFDAC warns that counterfeit Postinor-2 may contain harmful or substandard ingredients, incorrect doses of levonorgestrel, and could be manufactured under unsafe conditions. These issues could lead to: Contraceptive failure, Toxic contamination, Unpredictable side effects, Long-term reproductive health complications, Allergic reactions, Organ damage, In extreme cases, death.

The agency emphasised the significant public health threat posed by fake medications, as they compromise access to genuine emergency contraception and endanger users’ lives.

NAFDAC urges Nigerians to purchase Postinor-2 only from verified pharmacies or licensed healthcare providers. The agency also advises healthcare professionals and the public to report any suspected counterfeit medicines to the nearest NAFDAC office by calling 0800-162-3322 or emailing sf.alert@nafdac.gov.ng.