KARACHI: In a crackdown against counterfeit pharmaceuticals, the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) has seized fake and counterfeit medicines of well-known pharmaceutical companies in Karachi. The action follows a tip-off and subsequent investigation that revealed the circulation of spurious drugs within the city.
According to DRAP officials, drug inspectors sealed the counterfeit batches after the respective pharmaceutical companies confirmed that these products did not originate from their manufacturing units. The Drug Testing Laboratory in Karachi verified that the seized medicines were indeed fake, raising serious concerns about public health safety.
The pharmaceutical companies in question have distanced themselves from these counterfeit batches, reassuring the public that their genuine products are produced under strict regulatory compliance. However, the presence of fake medicines in the market has prompted authorities to issue a public warning.
The in-charge of the Drug Testing Laboratory has specifically identified and warned against purchasing the following batches:
- Neubrol Fort (Batch DB0982)
- Iodex HIAA
- Phenobar (Batch QA008)
These batches have been confirmed as counterfeit and pose a significant risk to consumers. Authorities strongly advise the public to purchase medicines only from registered pharmacies and to verify the authenticity of pharmaceutical products before consumption.
This swift action by DRAP highlights the ongoing efforts to combat the influx of fake medicines in Pakistan and protect public health. The regulatory body has urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious pharmaceutical products to the relevant authorities.