: DRAP Issues Emergency Alert Over Counterfeit Medicines in Punjab, Urges Public to Stop Use Immediately

The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) has issued an emergency alert after laboratory testing confirmed that six medicines circulating in Punjab are counterfeit or substandard, posing serious health risks to the public.

According to an official statement released on April 21, 2026, DRAP identified specific batches of these drugs that failed quality tests and were declared either fake or below required standards. The authority warned that these medicines should not be used under any circumstances due to the potential for serious harm.

Officials stated that the identified medicines were manufactured outside registered pharmaceutical facilities, raising concerns about illegal production and distribution networks operating in the region. This has prompted fears of an expanding counterfeit drug trade that could undermine public health efforts.

DRAP has directed healthcare providers, pharmacies, and the general public to immediately stop the use and sale of the affected batches. The authority emphasized that anyone currently using any of the flagged drugs should consult a healthcare professional and seek safer alternatives.

The regulatory body has also urged provincial and federal authorities to intensify inspections and take strict legal action against those involved in the manufacturing, supply, or sale of counterfeit medicines. DRAP reiterated its commitment to ensuring drug safety and called on citizens to report any suspicious or unverified medicines to help curb the spread of fraudulent pharmaceuticals.

In related developments, the Punjab Drug Control Board previously issued a similar alert in March 2026, ordering a recall of five medicines found to be counterfeit or substandard. Those included a multivitamin for bones and calcium produced by an Islamabad company, a well-known cough syrup manufactured in Karachi that was adulterated, a pain injection made in Lahore containing dangerous particles, and two veterinary injections from Lahore and Karachi with insufficient active ingredients.

Following that earlier alert, the Punjab health department directed the immediate removal of the identified batches from medical stores and pharmacies across the province. Authorities warned that outlets continuing to sell the recalled products would face strict legal action as part of enforcement measures tied to the drug recall.

Consumers are advised to carefully check batch numbers when purchasing medicines and to obtain medications only from licensed pharmacies. Anyone who believes they have received an affected batch or experiences adverse effects after treatment should seek medical advice promptly.

DRAP continues to monitor the situation and has pledged to take all necessary steps to protect public health from the dangers of counterfeit drugs. The authority maintains that vigilance from both officials and the public is essential in combating the illegal drug trade.