DRAP declares three medicines substandard and dangerous

ISLAMABAD (The Tribune International Report ) – The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) has issued an urgent alert after three widely used medicines were declared substandard, dangerous and unsafe by the Central Drugs Laboratory Karachi.

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The authority has ordered their immediate recall from markets across the country.
According to DRAP Alert No. I/S/11-25-113, issued on 20 November 2025, the following products failed quality tests:
Here is the corrected, expanded version with their normal uses inserted:
1. Injection Freclomide (Metoclopramide HCl 10mg) – Batch No. 25MC09, manufactured by Friends Pharma, Lahore.
Normally used to treat nausea, vomiting, and stomach-related issues.
Declared substandard due to visible particulate contamination.
2. Infusion Safemed (Metronidazole 500mg/100ml) – Batch No. SAU-2501, manufactured by Ahad International Pharmaceutical Ltd., Dera Ismail Khan.
Normally used to treat serious bacterial and parasitic infections, especially in hospitalized patients.
Declared substandard because of visible particles in the solution.
3. Tablet Loratamin (Loratadine 10mg) – Batch No. 23, manufactured by Murfy Pharmaceuticals, Lahore.
Normally used to relieve allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itching.
Declared adulterated after tests found Paracetamol mixed in, an ingredient not part of the approved formula.

DRAP warned that these quality defects pose serious health risks. Contaminated injections and infusions can cause embolism, sepsis, organ failure, or even death. The adulterated tablet exposes patients to wrong treatment and possible allergic reactions.

The regulatory field force has been ordered to conduct market surveys and remove the affected products without delay. Pharmacists, chemists, and distributors have been told to stop supplying these batches, quarantine remaining stock, and return it to manufacturers.
Healthcare professionals have been advised to increase vigilance and report any adverse reactions. Consumers are urged to stop using the affected medicines immediately and consult their doctors if they face any health issues.

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DRAP also reminded the public to buy medicines only from licensed pharmacies and check their authenticity before use.