Fake cancer drug, Avastin (bevacizumab) has been distributed in the USA, according to statement issued by Roche, Genentech and the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) today. Roche warns that the counterfeit medication does not have the active ingredient – bevacizumab – and should not be used or taken.
Roche says it was told about the fake Avastin from a non-US health authorities. The company added that the bogus drug comes from another country, but gave no more details.
In a communiqué, Genentech, which is a Roche company, wrote:
“We are working with the FDA and law enforcement to aid their evaluations, determine the source of the counterfeit drug, and prevent its further distribution. The counterfeit product is not safe or effective and should not be used.”
The FDA urges anybody who believes they have or suspect they have bogus Avastin, to contact the Agency’s
If you are taking Avastin and feel any type of side effects, please get in touch with your doctor immediately. Any unusual symptoms or side effects should be reported, by both doctors and patients, to the FDA’s MedWatch Program, phone number 1-800-FDA-1088, or Genetech’s Drug Safety Dept, phone number 1-888-835-2555.
The following lot numbers in the USA labeled as Avastin 400 mg/16 mL on either the packaging or vials may be fake:
- B86017
- B6011
- B6010
