The FDA is warning doctors and patients about a batch of counterfeit Avastin that has been accidentally purchased and used by 19 different clinics across the country. The counterfeit version is very similar to Roche Pharmaceuticals’ Avastin, but is missing the essential medicinal ingredient, bevacizumab. This may result in cancer patients not receiving the treatment as needed.

Counterfeit Avastin is labeled with “Roche Pharmaceuticals” and batch numbers starting with B6010, B6011 or B86017. The only Avastin that is FDA-approved for distribution in the United States is distributed by Genentech, which is a member company of Roche.

Avastin is an injectable cancer treatment typically administered in hospitals, doctors’ offices and clinics. Doctors may order from a local supplier instead of directly from the manufacturer, which can lead to counterfeit products being used. In order to avoid this, talk to your doctor about your treatment options. Your doctor may suggest that you buy Afinitor or try other cancer medications.

To see the Food and Drug Administration’s original release, click here.