WHO Alert: Falsified Oxycontin 80mg Found in Switzerland

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a Medical Product Alert regarding a falsified batch of Oxycontin 80mg (oxycodone hydrochloride) found in the unregulated market in Switzerland. The genuine manufacturer, Mundipharma, confirmed the falsification in February 2025.

Key Concerns:

• Dangerous Composition: The falsified tablets do not contain oxycodone but an undeclared synthetic opioid, likely a nitazene compound, which is far more potent and increases the risk of overdose.
• High Overdose Risk: Nitazene opioids can be hundreds of times stronger than oxycodone, leading to severe health risks, including respiratory depression, coma, or death, especially if combined with other depressants.
• Widespread Risk: Similar falsified Oxycontin has been reported in Poland, Sweden, Ireland, and Switzerland.

How to Identify the Falsified Product:

• Incorrect batch and expiry date placement (on the front of the blister strip, instead of the back).
• Batch number and expiry date reversed (expiry date appears on the left instead of the right).

WHO Recommendations:

• Do not use Oxycontin from unregulated sources.
• Healthcare professionals should report adverse effects or suspected falsification.
• Regulators should increase surveillance and report findings to WHO.
• Seek medical help immediately if experiencing unusual side effects.

24-03-2025

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