Amid growing concerns over reports of a supposedly counterfeit drug called Escodyne, the National Syndicate of Community Pharmacists (SNAPO) moved swiftly this Wednesday to calm public fears. In a statement, SNAPO confirmed that after nationwide checks with pharmacy networks and consultations with health authorities, the product does not exist in any pharmacies.
SNAPO stressed that Escodyne “is not distributed through official pharmaceutical channels and is not dispensed in Algerian pharmacies.” The syndicate reassured patients and citizens that “this product is not marketed in Algeria and is subject to no dispensation at community pharmacies.”
A pharmacists’ representative noted that the initial alert stemmed from a letter numbered 1215/DSP/2026 from the Health and Population Directorate (DSP) in Bordj Bou Arréridj wilaya, flagging the alleged circulation of a falsified drug named Escodyne. SNAPO promptly launched verifications across the country’s community pharmacists to confirm the information. Their findings revealed no trace of the product in regulated pharmaceutical circuits.
SNAPO underscored the vital role of community pharmacists in securing the drug supply chain. As healthcare professionals, they serve as “the guarantors of medication quality, traceability, and compliance,” including for dietary supplements available to patients.
Still, SNAPO urged citizens to “remain vigilant against products from informal channels or unknown origins, often sold outside regulated pathways.” It also called on the public to “avoid consuming unidentified substances and consult their pharmacist for any medication-related queries.” Pharmacies, it emphasized, offer the safest access to controlled, standards-compliant drugs.
For context, the Bordj Bou Arréridj DSP alert had warned of a falsified Escodyne-brand drug posing a severe public health threat. Marketed as a headache painkiller, the product ignores potentially lethal side effects.
The DSP suggested the item—possibly of Zionist origin—enters Algeria clandestinely through informal routes via Jordan and Syria. It urged health facilities and citizens to report any sightings or sales attempts immediately. SNAPO affirmed its full commitment alongside health authorities to safeguard the drug circuit and public health, stressing collective vigilance against falsified or hazardous goods. Meanwhile, officials advise caution and prompt reporting of suspicious items to protect patients.