KARACHI: A relentless crackdown is in progress nationwide to combat illegal profiteering in the trade of counterfeit and unregistered medicines. This initiative was launched under the guidance of Caretaker Federal Minister for Health, Dr. Nadeem Jan.
Distributors, pharmacies, and medical stores are currently facing rigorous inspections in major cities throughout the country. In Karachi, the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) team conducted thorough examinations of pharmacies and medical stores in various localities. Notable raids included one at Irfan Medicos in DHA Karachi, as well as several other pharmacies in Gulshan Iqbal and Gulistan Johar.
Dr. Nadeem Jan expressed concern over the exorbitant prices at which essential medicines were being sold. For instance, the Heparin injection, which should be available at Rs 800, was being sold for an alarming Rs 3500. Similar price disparities were found for Tramal Injection, Augmentin DS Suspension, Hydryline Syrup, Ventolin Inhaler, Tegeral tablets, and Augmentin DS. These confiscated medicines have been sealed, and legal actions against pharmacy owners have been initiated under the DRAP Act.
Furthermore, Dr. Jan emphasized that stringent measures would be taken against individuals involved in exploiting the public. He reiterated that no one is above the law and underscored his commitment to ensuring the availability of quality medicines across the country. Soon after taking office, he issued directives to DRAP to take all necessary actions to guarantee the provision of high-quality medicines to the people.
