On February 20, the Polish Chief Pharmaceutical Inspector (GIF) issued an urgent notice regarding the withdrawal of the antiseptic Octenisept from pharmacies. This decision was prompted by the discovery of counterfeit bottles in circulation that do not meet safety and information standards. Specific batches of Octenisept, particularly those in 50 ml transparent bottles, have been recalled as they lack proper labeling and external packaging, raising concerns about their authenticity and safety for consumers.

The recall affects three specific batches with expiration dates ranging from 2029 to 2030. The problematic products were identified as having fake labels, and despite being sold legally in pharmacies, they posed a risk due to their non-compliance with regulatory standards. The GIF clarified that the issue is limited to the counterfeit products, not the legitimate medication that continues to be available under proper regulations. This action reflects a growing vigilance by health authorities in Poland to safeguard public health and ensure that patients receive only safe and effective medications.

The discovery of these counterfeit bottles, totaling 25 in number, underscores the ongoing challenges faced by regulatory agencies in combating pharmaceutical fraud. This incident not only impacts individual patients who may have inadvertently purchased the counterfeit product but also poses broader implications for public trust in the medicinal supply chain. The GIF's proactive measures serve as a reminder of the importance of verifying medications before use and staying informed about any recalls or safety warnings from health authorities.