By Desire Tshuma
The Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) has issued a warning about a counterfeit version of the cancer drug Zoladex (Goserelin Acetate) 10.8mg injection. The fake product, which has been circulating in the country, is believed to have been illegally imported and diverted from another market.
According to MCAZ Director General, R.T. Rukwata, the counterfeit product has been detected in significant quantities, with several batches of the fake Zoladex 10.8mg injection found in various parts of the country. The fake product is packaged in Afrikaans and has several distinguishing features, including a purple carton and lower-quality packaging.
The MCAZ is urging healthcare providers, patients, and the public to be cautious when purchasing or using Goserelin Acetate (Zoladex) 10.8mg injections. “Only medicines registered and approved by MCAZ should be used to ensure safety, quality, and effectiveness in the treatment of all conditions,” Rukwata said.
The counterfeit Zoladex injection is being investigated by the MCAZ, and the authority is working to identify the source of the fake product. Wholesalers, pharmacies, and clinics have been instructed to immediately quarantine any units of the unapproved Zoladex injection and submit them to MCAZ for safe disposal.
Members of the public who may have purchased the counterfeit injection are advised to return it to the pharmacy where it was obtained. The MCAZ is also urging anyone with information about the fake product to come forward and report it to the authorities.
The Zoladex 10.8mg injection is a critical medication used in the treatment of certain types of cancer, including prostate cancer and breast cancer. The MCAZ is working closely with healthcare providers and other stakeholders to ensure that patients have access to safe and effective medications.
The MCAZ will continue to provide updates on the investigation and take action against those responsible for the counterfeit product. In the meantime, the public is advised to remain vigilant and only purchase medications from authorized and licensed suppliers.