This Medical Product Alert relates to the confirmed circulation of falsified versions of Postinor-2 (Levonorgestrel) in East Africa.
Postinor-2 is a widely used emergency contraceptive that should contain 0.75mg of levonorgestrel. The genuine product is manufactured by Gedeon Richter.
In August 2015, the Uganda National Drug Authority notified WHO of the seizure of falsified Postinor-2 discovered in Kampala, Uganda. All packs reported bear the same batch number and expiry/manufacturing dates.
Details and photographs of the product are available here.
The batch number and manufacturing/expiry dates relate to a genuine batch of Postinor-2. Laboratory analysis has shown that the product contains zero active pharmaceutical ingredient. Furthermore, the manufacturers of genuine Postinor-2 have confirmed the packaging is falsified.
If you are in possession of the same batch of Postinor-2 shown in the photographs and with a non-useable white “scratch area” on the reverse side of the pack please do not use, contact a Pharmacist or a Doctor as soon as possible for advice and report the incident to your National Medicines Regulatory Authority.
If you think you have taken this product, please seek medical advice immediately.
If you have any information concerning the supply of this product please contact rapidalert@who.int.
Details and photographs of the product are available here.