The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued an alert after counterfeit batches of the cancer drug Dazalex were detected in the Maldives and Mexico.
The fake batches, MYS7381 and STV1K01, were confirmed by the drug’s manufacturer, Janssen. The Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) said counterfeit STV1K01 vials contained visible particles.
The Health Ministry said the fake injections are not available in local pharmacies and were brought into the country on request for a patient.
Dazalex is used to treat rare blood disorders, including multiple myeloma and amyloidosis. WHO warned that counterfeit versions may lack active ingredients, contain harmful substances, cause infections, or worsen a patient’s condition.
The WHO has urged patients and healthcare providers not to use the affected batch numbers and to report any suspected side effects or counterfeit products to the relevant authorities.
