The issue of spurious drugs in Pakistan poses a significant threat to public health, with alarming statistics indicating that 85% of medicines sold are either substandard or counterfeit. Recent findings from the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) revealed that over 50% of life-saving medication samples tested were fake, including critical drugs used in treating mental illnesses and infections.
Authorities have identified several life-saving drugs, such as Isoflurane and Alprazolam, as spurious. These drugs often contain non-active substances like chalk or starch instead of the intended active ingredients. DRAP has increased market surveillance but faces challenges due to widespread corruption and inadequate enforcement. Reports indicate that many offenders remain unpunished despite numerous violations being recorded. The government is urged to implement stricter regulations and penalties for those involved in the production and distribution of counterfeit drugs.
Healthcare professionals advocate for severe legal consequences, potentially including charges of premeditated murder for those whose actions lead to patient harm.
Pakistan is seeking assistance from international entities like the US FDA to improve drug regulation, quality control and post-marketing surveillance. The introduction of barcodes on drug packaging has been mandated to help verify authenticity and track pharmaceuticals through the supply chain. More over educating consumers about purchasing medications from reputable pharmacies can reduce reliance on unverified sources.
The menace of spurious drugs in Pakistan requires urgent attention through enhanced regulatory frameworks, international collaboration and public education to safeguard health outcomes and restore trust in the healthcare system.
Dr Pervez Ahmed Shar
Khair Pur Mirs
