LAHORE, Jan 28: Multinational pharmaceutical companies have demanded formation of an independent central drug regulatory authority to oversee the industry in Pakistan.

In a statement issued here on Saturday, the Pharma Bureau, a representative body of the multinational pharmaceutical companies, said an independent DRA was the need of the hour to ensure patient welfare and safety and to rebuild confidence of the public in the pharmaceutical industry.

“Pakistan has been lacking a central regulating authority which is a major concern for the industry,” it said, expressing concern over the death of PIC patients.