The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) has ramped up its nationwide campaign against the illegal sale, manufacture, and distribution of spurious therapeutic goods.
Over the past fifteen days, DRAP, working closely with provincial health authorities, executed a series of enforcement actions that led to significant seizures, facility closures, and the initiation of legal proceedings.
DRAP’s operations in Lahore uncovered individuals illegally selling Urografin 76% Injection, resulting in confiscations and legal charges. In another incident near Hameed Latif Hospital, a peddler was intercepted selling unregistered Lipiodol Ultra Liquid, leading to a raid on M/s Al-Waali Distributors. The premises were sealed, and an investigation commenced.
In Islamabad, DRAP’s surprise inspection at a facility on Kahuta Road revealed the illegal production of plastic urine collection containers without the required Establishment License, violating the Medical Devices Rules, 2017. The facility was sealed, and the illegal products were seized. A similar operation at M/s Ambro Pharmaceuticals uncovered unauthorized manufacturing, prompting the sealing of the site and legal action against the owner.
DRAP has also issued an urgent alert about falsified Propylene Glycol in the market after the Drug Testing Laboratory in Lahore found hazardous levels of Ethylene Glycol in a specific batch. The authority urges rigorous screening of raw materials to prevent such threats.
DRAP remains steadfast in its mission to eliminate counterfeit therapeutic goods through stringent regulations and public cooperation. Citizens are encouraged to report suspicious activities related to counterfeit medicines or medical devices via DRAP’s official channels, reinforcing the shared goal of ensuring safe and effective healthcare products for all.