ISLAMABAD: The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) has taken strict notice of the illegal online sale and advertisement of medicines across the country, raising serious concerns over public health risks.
In a formal move, DRAP has requested the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to block websites and social media pages involved in the unauthorized sale and promotion of pharmaceutical products. The request also includes identification of multiple online platforms found to be engaged in such activities.
According to DRAP, investigations have revealed the online sale of smuggled medicines originating from India and Iran. The authority has termed the distribution of unregistered and smuggled drugs a significant threat to public health.
Officials have expressed concern over the widespread promotion of medicines without prescriptions on digital platforms. Drugs related to sexual health, weight loss, and mental health are reportedly being advertised and sold online in violation of regulatory laws.
DRAP warned that such advertisements are encouraging self-medication among the public, which can lead to serious health complications.
The authority emphasized that the promotion and sale of medicines without prior approval constitute a clear breach of drug regulations. It further cautioned that substandard and unverified medicines may cause severe side effects and life-threatening conditions.
Reiterating its regulatory stance, DRAP has made prior approval mandatory for all pharmaceutical advertisements and warned that violations will result in penalties, confiscation of products, and legal action.
The authority has also urged PTA to collaborate with social media companies to ensure the immediate removal of illegal drug advertisements. At the same time, the public has been advised to avoid purchasing medicines from unverified online sources and to rely only on authorized and regulated channels.
