WHO Reports Counterfeit Batches of Cancer Drug Imfinzi

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has reported the discovery of counterfeit batches of the cancer drug Imfinzi in the European region and the Eastern Mediterranean. The medication is used to treat lung cancer in adults.

Fake packaging was found in Iran and Turkey. Previously, the WHO had issued similar warnings concerning Armenia, Lebanon and Turkey.

Imfinzi, produced by AstraZeneca, contains the active substance durvalumab, a monoclonal antibody used in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer. The drug is only available by prescription.

Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Health noted that Imfinzi is not registered in the country and is not included in the list of approved medications. The National Pharmaceutical Safety Centre has not received any reports of adverse effects associated with the drug.

Kursiv Uzbekistan reports that Pfizer plans to acquire the rights to a cancer drug for $1.25 bn.