Ten widely used medicines, including several life-saving drugs being sold across Punjab, have been declared substandard by the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP). The authority has imposed an immediate ban on specific batches of these medicines after laboratory testing confirmed serious quality concerns. According to a private TV report citing official sources, samples were collected and sent to a government drug testing laboratory, where the quality of ten medicines was found to be extremely poor and potentially dangerous for patients.
The medicines declared substandard include treatments for allergies, heart conditions, skin infections, colds, and eye problems. An anti-allergy medicine, Daisy, failed quality standards, while Escad, used to reduce the risk of heart attacks, was also deemed hazardous to health. Canadex, prescribed for skin infections, has been withdrawn from use. Cold medications Sepizine and Rozan were also banned, along with Nafen eye drops, after they did not meet required safety standards. Additionally, an injection used to treat varicose veins in the hands and feet has been included in the list of defective drugs.
Officials said these medicines were manufactured by pharmaceutical companies operating in Karachi’s SITE Area and Manghopir, as well as Lahore’s Sundar Industrial Estate and Raiwind Road. DRAP has directed authorities and pharmacies to immediately stop the sale and distribution of the affected batches and remove them from shelves. Health experts have urged patients currently using these medicines to consult doctors for safer alternatives. DRAP has also warned manufacturers to strengthen quality control systems and stated that further inspections, legal action, and penalties may follow to protect public health and ensure strict compliance with drug safety regulations.