NAFDAC warns against antibiotic misuse in humans, animals

• NAFDAC emphasises the dangers of antibiotic misuse in humans and animals, linking it to the rise of antimicrobial resistance (AMR)
• The Agency stated that AMR threatens medical progress, complicates infection treatment, and endangers routine surgeries and newborn health
• The Danish Embassy lauds NAFDAC's effectiveness and calls for international cooperation to address the global challenge of AMR

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has raised the alarm over the misuse of antibiotics in humans and animals, emphasising its role in the alarming rise of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

This warning was issued after the 2024 World Antimicrobial Awareness Week, organised in collaboration with the Royal Danish Embassy and Denmark’s Ministry of Environment and Food. 

NAFDAC Director-General Professor Mojisola Adeyeye outlined the severe consequences of antibiotic misuse during the event.

“Improper practices, such as failing to complete prescribed antibiotic courses or consuming meat from animals treated with antibiotics before the drugs have cleared their systems, significantly contribute to antimicrobial resistance.

“This resistance undermines the efficacy of antibiotics, leaving common infections increasingly difficult to treat. Responsible use of antibiotics is crucial to safeguarding public health,” Adeyeye stated. 

Themed “Educate, Advocate, Act Now,” the awareness campaign focused on educating healthcare professionals, veterinarians, and other stakeholders about responsible antibiotic use. 

Professor Adeyeye highlighted NAFDAC's ongoing initiatives to address the issue, including enhanced public education and advocating for traceability in antibiotic transactions through receipt issuance.

She also urged veterinarians and butchers to allow sufficient withdrawal periods after administering antibiotics to livestock before slaughtering to ensure drug residues do not enter the food chain.

“The growing resistance to antibiotics, antivirals, and antifungals is reversing decades of medical progress. 

“This challenge jeopardises routine medical procedures, surgeries, and the effective treatment of infections, with newborns being particularly vulnerable,” she warned. 

Professor Adeyeye attributed the spread of AMR to multiple factors, including the misuse of antimicrobial agents, the proliferation of substandard and counterfeit drugs, and improper drug handling. She assured that NAFDAC is actively working to mitigate these issues through stringent regulatory measures.

Speaking at the event, the Danish Ambassador to Nigeria, Jens Ole Bach Hansen, highlighted the global nature of AMR.

“Antimicrobial resistance transcends borders; bacteria know no boundaries. 

“Through collaboration with NAFDAC, we’ve been able to share expertise and experiences to address this shared challenge,” he remarked. 

The event underscored the urgent need for stronger international cooperation, increased awareness, and decisive action to combat the escalating threat of AMR.

NAFDAC reiterated its commitment to promoting public health and protecting future generations from the dire consequences of antimicrobial resistance.

NAFDAC warns Nigerians against use of recalled Nivea roll-on deodorant

Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) issued a warning to Nigerians regarding the recall of Nivea Black & White Invisible Roll-on deodorant (50ml), which claims to provide 48-hour protection in African climates. 

The agency revealed that the deodorant contains 2-(4-tert-Butylbenzyl) propionaldehyde, a chemical prohibited in cosmetic products due to its potential health risks.