ISLAMABAD: After finding violations of sales at over 85 per cent of outlets, the Ministry of National Health Services (NHS) has approached the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to address the issue of spurious drugs, violations of rules, and to enhance monitoring in the market.

The delegation of the health ministry, headed by Federal Minister Abdul Qadir Patel, is in the United States to get the support, training, and technology to ensure the availability of quality drugs in Pakistan.

Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (Drap) CEO Asim Rauf, who is also accompanying the delegation, told Dawn said that the National Task Force on Eradication of Spurious Therapeutic Goods registered 48,418 violations at almost 56,153 outlets inspected during the financial year 2022-23.

Patel in US to get training and technology for Drap

According to a statement regarding the meeting between the FDA and the Pakistani delegation, the consultation aimed to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the field of pharmaceutical regulation and foster collaborative efforts between Pakistan and the US to curtail the menace of spurious and sub-standard medicines. Pakistan also sought help for the capacity building of Drap.

“During the meeting, the minister expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome extended by the FDA officials and highlighted the importance of international partnerships in promoting public health and ensuring the availability of safe and effective medicines,” the statement said, adding that the health minister also emphasised Pakistan’s commitment to aligning its regulatory practices with global standards and the need for mutual cooperation in this regard,” it stated.

“The discussions revolved around various key areas, including the regulatory framework, drug approval processes, post-marketing surveillance, and quality control measures. Patel shared Pakistan’s initiatives and reforms undertaken by Drap to enhance its regulatory capacity and improve patient access to high-quality medicines. He acknowledged the FDA’s vast expertise and expressed a desire to benefit from their best practices and technical assistance,” it stated.

According to a statement, the FDA officials “commended Pakistan’s efforts in strengthening its regulatory infrastructure and recognised the significant progress made in recent years”.

They reportedly highlighted the importance of collaboration between regulatory authorities to ensure the safety, efficacy, and quality of pharmaceutical products, both domestically and internationally.

“We are committed to fostering strong partnerships with international counterparts to strengthen our regulatory processes, ensure patient safety, and contribute to global health objectives,” assured the health minister.

NHS Spokesperson Sajid Shah said that the Drap has taken a number of steps to ensure the quality of drugs. He said a task force has been formed to curb the sale of counterfeit drugs. “A system has been introduced… [for] online…registration of drugs,” he said.

Published in Dawn, May 19th, 2023