The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) has taken strict action against the online promotion and illegal sale of medicines, formally requesting the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to block related websites and social media pages.
In an official letter, DRAP identified several online platforms involved in selling medicines and revealed that smuggled drugs from India and Iran are also being sold online.
The authority warned that the sale of unregistered and smuggled medicines poses a serious risk to public health. It also expressed concern over the promotion of prescription drugs on websites and social media without proper authorisation.
According to DRAP, the online sale of medicines related to sexual health, weight loss, and mental health is illegal. Social media advertisements are encouraging self-medication, which can lead to further health risks.
DRAP clarified that the unauthorised promotion and sale of medicines is a violation of drug laws. Substandard medicines can cause severe side effects and even life-threatening complications.
Officials added that prior approval is mandatory for advertising medicines. Violators may face fines, confiscation of products, and legal action.
DRAP has urged the PTA to work with social media companies to remove advertisements for illegal medicines. The public has also been advised to avoid purchasing medicines from unverified online sources.
Also Read: Is there really a medicine shortage in Pakistan?
As the situation escalates in the Middle East, social media platforms have been flooded with rumours about the shortage of medicines in Pakistan.
However, the Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association has rejected claims of a medicine shortage in Pakistan, stating that supplies of both essential and non-essential drugs remain sufficient across the country.
