The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has warned Nigerians against the circulation of suspected counterfeit ORACIRE+ Toothpaste, allegedly distributed under the guise of the registered ORACARE+ Toothpaste.

The agency said the alert followed a formal complaint and market intelligence report on the widespread distribution of the suspected counterfeit product.

NAFDAC said surveillance at Ojuwoye Market, Mushin, Lagos, showed that the suspected counterfeit closely resembles the registered ORACARE+ Toothpaste in packaging and overall presentation, making it difficult for consumers to distinguish between them.

It warned that counterfeit personal care products may not meet established quality and safety standards and could pose health risks, noting that the origin, composition, safety and quality of the suspected ORACIRE+ Toothpaste had not been verified.

The agency said it had commenced surveillance and directed its zonal directors and state coordinators to investigate the availability and distribution of the product and take appropriate regulatory action.

NAFDAC urged consumers and healthcare providers to report suspected sales of the counterfeit toothpaste to the nearest NAFDAC office.