WHO Issues Global Alert After Fake Cancer Drug Found in Maldives

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a medical product alert after falsified batches of the cancer medicine Darzalex (daratumumab) were identified in the Maldives and Mexico, warning that the counterfeit injections could pose a serious risk to patients.

The alert was issued by WHO headquarters in Geneva on Friday following the discovery of falsified batches of Darzalex, a medicine used to treat multiple myeloma and other blood-related cancers.

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According to WHO, the cases were reported by the Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) and health authorities in Mexico between May and June last year. The counterfeit products were found in the possession of unauthorised suppliers and in some hospitals.

WHO said the original manufacturer, Janssen, had confirmed that the batch numbers MYS7381 and STV1K01 were not genuine and had never been produced by the company.

The MFDA also reported that vials from batch STV1K01 discovered in the Maldives contained visible contamination.

WHO warned that the falsified medicine presents a direct threat to patient safety, as its quality, purity and contents are unknown. The organisation said the counterfeit product may contain no active ingredient or harmful substances, increasing the risk of treatment failure, infection, worsening disease and potentially death.

Health professionals and the public have been urged to remain vigilant. WHO advised anyone in possession of Darzalex with the affected batch numbers not to use the product.

The organisation also recommended that anyone who has already received the medicine from the affected batches seek immediate medical attention. It further urged the public to purchase medicines only from authorised suppliers and to report any suspected falsified products to the MFDA or directly to WHO.