A counterfeit version of BiCNU has been detected in foreign countries, the Food and Drug Administration reports.
BiCNU is approved to treat different types of brain cancer, multiple myeloma, and lymphoma (Hodgkin’s and non-Hodgkin’s), manufactured by Emcure Pharmaceuticals, and distributed by Heritage Pharmaceuticals.
There has been no counterfeit BiCNU detected in the United States, but the FDA encourages health care professionals to diligently inspect BiCNU vials before administering the drug to patients.
“While the [National Drug Code] on the outer package of the authentic and counterfeit version might match, the best way to distinguish a counterfeit is to look at the BiCNU vial inside the packaging,” the FDA reported in a written statement, which includes a list of the counterfeit lots.
To report sales solicitation of suspect drugs call the FDA’s office of criminal investigations at 800-551-3989 or e-mail DrugSupplyChainIntegrity@fda.hhs.gov. To report adverse events related to suspect medications, submit a report online at www.fda.gov/medwatch/report.htm.
On Twitter @jess_craig94