Shanghai, Feb 1 (IANS) Eighteen people have been arrested on charges of manufacturing and selling fake eye medication that left 61 patients suffering from adverse reactions in Shanghai, authorities said.
A total of 116 patients were treated with the fake version of Avastin – originally produced by Swiss pharmaceutical company Roche Group – in September last year at the No. 1 People’s Hospital, Xinhua reported.
The Shanghai municipal government said in 61 patients experienced negative reactions, including pain, red eyes and unclear vision. All of them were, however, later discharged following proper treatment. None suffered damage to their vision.
An investigation showed the fake drug was also sold to the Ruijin-AmMed Cancer Centre, a joint venture between Shanghai’s Ruijin Hospital and AmMed Cancer Centre of Hong Kong.
The presidents of the No.1 People’s Hospital and Ruijin Hospital have received disciplinary punishment.
The Ruijin-AmMed Cancer Centre had its revenues confiscated and medical license revoked.
