INH issued a health alert for counterfeit units of the cancer drug Opdivo

Published at: 24/09/2026 10:16 AM

The Rafael Rangel National Institute of Hygiene issued an alert to health professionals and the general public regarding the presence in the country of counterfeit units of the 10 mg/ml cancer drug Opdivo (nivolumab). The affected batch is ACT5594, with a production date in March 2024 and expires in February 2027.

As reported by the Venezuelan News Agency (AVN), the technical investigation determined that the original ACT5594 batch of the parent company Bristol-Myers Squibb was manufactured only for Colombia in a 100 mg/10 ml presentation, and not in the 40 mg/4 ml presentation shown in the counterfeit packaging.

In the same way, obvious alterations were detected in the labeling of the case, with incorrect concentration and volume, as well as differences in the graphic materials and colors of the labels compared to the original ones. The product entered the country through unauthorized channels.

“As a counterfeit product, its composition, sterility or effectiveness are not guaranteed, representing a serious health risk,” said the statement issued by the institute. The institution indicated that the original product authorized in Venezuela is only sold in pharmacies owned by the BADAN Foundation, so it urged not to purchase or administer the ACT5594 batch under any circumstances.

The agency requested to report the sale of this lot in stores or digital platforms to the email alertasinhrr@gmail.com. He also urged clinics, hospitals and pharmacies to purchase medicines only from suppliers certified by the Ministry of Health.

Mazo News Team