A registered nurse in Northern Ireland has been fined after authorities discovered unlicensed prescription medicines at a home-based aesthetics clinic in Portadown. The case has drawn attention to regulatory requirements governing cosmetic procedures involving medical products.
Nafeyka Chavdarova, a 44-year-old nurse from Portadown, pleaded guilty to nine offences under the Human Medicines Regulations. The charges were related to the unlawful possession and advertisement of prescription-only medicines intended for supply.
She appeared before Craigavon Magistrates’ Court in March 2026, where she was fined £720 and required to pay an additional offender levy.
The violations were identified during an inspection conducted in March 2024 by enforcement officers from the Department of Health’s Medicines Regulatory Group. The inspection took place at Chavdarova’s home on Clendenning Avenue, which was being used as a private aesthetics clinic.
During the visit, officials found multiple prescription-only medicines stored on the premises.
Authorities reported the seizure of several injectable and therapeutic agents, including botulinum toxin type A, commonly used in cosmetic procedures to reduce facial wrinkles. Other substances included hydroxocobalamin (vitamin B12), hyaluronidase (used to dissolve dermal fillers), and lidocaine, a local anesthetic.
The Department of Health confirmed that the medicines found at the property were intended for supply and had been advertised unlawfully. Enforcement officers seized the products as part of their investigation.
Officials from the Medicines Regulatory Group stated that the case demonstrates the importance of maintaining strict control over the supply chain of prescription medicines to protect public health.
As reported in the BefastLive, Peter Moore, Senior Medicines Enforcement Officer with the Department of Health, who directed the investigation, said
This conviction sends a clear message that there are consequences if a person attempts to bypass the regulated system and controls which are in place to ensure public safety and integrity of the medicines supply chain.Peter Moore, Senior Medicines Enforcement Officer, Department of Health
Health authorities have advised the public to exercise caution when seeking cosmetic treatments or purchasing medicines from unverified providers. Patients are encouraged to consult qualified professionals and ensure that treatments are carried out in regulated settings.
Officials stated that enforcement efforts will continue to target the unlawful supply and promotion of medicines, with the aim of ensuring patient safety and adherence to established medical standards.
(Rh/SS)