The Punjab Drug Control Board has issued an emergency alert and ordered a drug recall after laboratory testing found specific batches of five medicines to be counterfeit or substandard.
Tests revealed that a multivitamin marketed for bones and calcium produced by an Islamabad company was fake. A well-known cough syrup manufactured in Karachi was found adulterated and did not meet quality standards. A pain injection made in Lahore contained dangerous particles that could pose a lethal risk to humans. Two veterinary injections produced in Lahore and Karachi were also found substandard, with active ingredient quantities not meeting required specifications.
Following the Drug Control Board’s report, the Punjab health department directed immediate removal of the affected batches from medical stores and pharmacies across the province. Authorities warned that outlets continuing to sell the identified batches will face strict legal action as part of enforcement measures tied to the drug recall.
Consumers are urged to check batch numbers carefully when purchasing medicines and to obtain medications only from licensed pharmacies. Anyone who believes they have received an affected batch or who experiences adverse effects after treatment should seek medical advice promptly.
The drug recall aims to protect public and animal health while further inspections and enforcement actions proceed to trace the source of the counterfeit and adulterated products and prevent further distribution.
