Pharmacists Warn Against Counterfeit Medical Diagnostic Kits, Chemicals Plaguing Pakistan

Pakistan Pharmacists Association (PPA) has urged to take immediate action against the illegal import, unlicensed manufacturing, and fraudulent labeling of diagnostic kits and chemical reagents wreaking havoc in the country. In a letter to all provincial governments, the association called upon the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) to enforce stricter regulations to curb these malpractices. PPA said counterfeit and substandard diagnostic reagents (often relabeled as branded products) are misleading medical professionals and causing misdiagnoses and improper treatments that could be fatal. It warned that such violations not only compromise patient safety but also impact the overall healthcare system and economy. To combat this issue, PPA recommended drug inspectors to monitor and confiscate illegal products, enforce strict licensing requirements for manufacturers and sellers, and ensure compliance with the Medical Devices Rules, 2017. Additionally, the association urged to collaborate with provincial authorities to launch awareness campaigns and establish a reporting mechanism for industry professionals and the public. PPA said it expects the authorities to tighten import regulations by verifying that all diagnostic reagents are registered before entering the market. “The enforcement of the afore-referred measures, which the field force is duty bound to undertake, shall be instrumental in ensuring the safety and efficacy of diagnostic reagents in Pakistan, safeguard the public health, and uphold the integrity of the healthcare system,” the letter added. It further said, “DRAP, being the prime regulator of Medical Devices is also expected to take necessary measures at its level and coordinate closely with Provincial Drug Control Administrations to implement these actions and take swift corrective measures where needed”.