PAKISTAN
The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) has launched a decisive crackdown on the illegal manufacturing of unregistered medical devices in Islamabad, according to a statement released on the PID website today.
During a surprise inspection at a facility in the Industrial Triangle, Kahuta Road, DRAP officials discovered the unlawful production and storage of plastic urine collection containers without the mandatory Establishment License. This was deemed a clear violation of the Medical Devices Rules, 2017, and the DRAP Act, 2012. The illegally manufactured products were confiscated, and the facility was sealed.
In a separate operation at a former pharmaceutical facility, M/s Ambro Pharmaceuticals, in the same area, authorities uncovered the unauthorized manufacturing and storage of medical devices, despite the prior cancellation of its Drug Manufacturing License. The premises were sealed, and legal action has been initiated against the owner.
Over the past fifteen days, DRAP, in collaboration with provincial health authorities, has intensified enforcement efforts against the illegal sale, manufacturing, and distribution of falsified therapeutic goods. These actions have led to significant seizures, facility closures, and legal proceedings.
In Lahore, authorities apprehended individuals involved in the illegal sale of Urografin 76% Injection, leading to confiscations and legal charges, including violations related to unlicensed sales and overpricing. Investigations are ongoing.
Additionally, a DRAP-led team in Lahore intercepted a seller distributing unregistered Lipiodol Ultra Liquid near Hameed Latif Hospital. A subsequent raid at M/s Al-Waali Distributors resulted in the recovery of illicit medical products, the sealing of the premises, and the initiation of a formal investigation.
In a proactive move to safeguard public health, DRAP has issued an urgent alert regarding the presence of falsified Propylene Glycol (PG) in the market. Testing conducted by the Drug Testing Laboratory (DTL) in Lahore confirmed dangerously high levels of toxic Ethylene Glycol (EG) in batch YF01210911, posing serious health risks.
DRAP has reiterated its advisory for rigorous raw material screening and remains resolutely committed to eliminating spurious and falsified therapeutic goods through enhanced surveillance, intelligence-driven enforcement, and strict regulatory measures.
The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to counterfeit or substandard medicines and medical devices through DRAP’s official channels. This collective effort is crucial to ensuring access to safe, effective, and high-quality therapeutic products for all citizens. ISLAMABAD, March 29, 2025: PID/ERMD
