Falsified antibiotics reported in WHO African Region

Falsified HEALMOXY (Amoxicillin) identified in Cameroon and Central African Republic

On 23 April 2025, the World Health Organization issued a product alert falsified HEALMOXY (Amoxicillin) 500mg capsules identified in WHO African Region [1]. These falsified products have been identified in both Cameroon and Central African Republic but WHO have warned that other countries and regions may also be affected.

Amoxicillin is an antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections. The affected batches of capsules, which have been shown not to contain the active ingredient (amoxicillin), are not effective in treating bacterial infections and therefore pose a risk to the general population, especially vulnerable individuals and those with severe infections.

Some of these falsified products displayed inconsistent dates on the packaging but otherwise looked very similar to the authentic packaging and products [2].

This incident highlights the ongoing issue worldwide with falsified drugs. It is estimated that around 10% of medical products in low- and middle-income countries are substandard or falsified [3].

Advice for travellers

Before you travel

• Take adequate supplies of your usual medication away with you in original packaging
• Be aware of the risks of falsified medical products; this term is used to describe deliberate misrepresentation of a drug or medical product (including 'substandard' or 'counterfeit')

While you are away

• Always obtain medication from a trusted and licensed outlet
• Examine any packaging for obvious spelling or grammatical errors
• Ensure the medication looks correct and is not degraded or discoloured
• Check manufacturing and expiration dates

When you return

• If you required additional supplies of medication or started new medication, prescribed whilst abroad, you are advised to see your regular doctor on return
• If you are unwell after travelling, you should seek advice from your GP or pharmacist and mention your recent travel

Advice for health professionals

Health care professionals should ensure travellers are made aware of the risk of falsified medication in many parts of the world. They should also be mindful of returning travellers who are unwell and may have received ineffective treatment whilst overseas.