DRAP flags three illegal foreign medicines being sold in Karachi

KARACHI: The illegal sale and supply of smuggled foreign medicines used to treat heart conditions, sleep disorders and epilepsy have been reported in Karachi, prompting the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) to issue rapid alerts for three medicines.

According to DRAP, British- and Italian-made medicines are being sold illegally in the local market. The Central Drug Laboratory (CDL) Karachi has declared three samples of foreign medicines illegal following laboratory analysis.

The medicines identified in the alerts include Flecainide Acetate, Modafinil 200mg and Mysoline 250mg.

According to DRAP, the batch numbered FDA GJ020 of Flecainide Acetate tablets, manufactured in the United Kingdom, is unregistered. The medicine is used to treat irregular heart rhythms.

Similarly, batch number MDSB25008A of Modafinil 200mg tablets, also identified as a British-made product, has been declared smuggled. The medicine is prescribed for certain sleep disorders.

The third medicine, Mysoline 250mg tablets, manufactured in Italy, has also been flagged. DRAP declared batch number 4626 unregistered. The medicine is used in the treatment of epilepsy.

In its alerts, DRAP warned that the quality, safety and effectiveness of illegally imported and smuggled medicines could not be verified. Such products may pose serious risks to public health.

The authority has directed relevant officials to identify suppliers involved in distributing the illegal medicines and seize the identified batches.

Pharmacies and medical stores have also been instructed to immediately stop selling these medicines and return any remaining stock to the relevant suppliers or authorities in accordance with regulatory directions.