The Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) has issued urgent public alerts concerning the circulation of falsified and substandard medicines in the country, raising alarm on counterfeit and compromised batches of key medications in the Kenyan market.
According to the public alert notice seen by JEDCA MEDIA issued on 24th April 2025, the PPB warned of falsified batches of Augmentin 1g (Batch Number SGS2) and Augmentin 625mg (Batch Numbers 8X3K and EU7C). The medication in question is used for treatment bacterial infections, including ear, sinus, respiratory tract, urinary tract, skin, soft tissue, dental, joint and bone infections.
The Board directed all pharmaceutical outlets, healthcare facilities, healthcare professionals, and members of the public to immediately cease any further distribution, sale, issuance, or use of these batches instructing the return of any remaining stock to the nearest healthcare facility or respective supplier to prevent potential harm to patients.
ALSO READ: MOH, Counties Sign Deal To Digitize Public Healthcare
Similarly, the Board drew attention to the detection of substandard batches of Paracetamol 1000mg/100ml injections, marketed under the brand names Lumidol, Paragen, and Blink.
The substandard products were identified due to noticeable color changes, a clear indicator of compromised quality and safety.
Specific batches affected include Lumidol Injection (Batch Numbers CM4594007, CM4594008, and CM4594009), Blink Injection (Batch Numbers CS4594005 and CS4594004), and Paragen Injection (Batch Number K4290027).
All these products were manufactured by KamlaAmrut Pharmaceutical LLP, India.
Dr. Fred Siyoi, the Chief Executive Officer of the Pharmacy and Poisons Board, emphasized the agency’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding public health. He reiterated that ensuring the safety, quality, and efficacy of all medicines in the Kenyan market remains the Board’s top priority.
Members of the public are urged to remain alert, verify medicines before use, and promptly report any products suspected to be falsified or substandard.
The PPB has provided multiple channels through which suspected cases of substandard or falsified medicines can be reported. Reports can be submitted online or through the USSD code *271# and other PPB official communication channels.
