The Punjab Drug Control Board has issued an emergency alert after laboratory testing declared specific batches of five medicines counterfeit and substandard. The Board’s findings cover both human and veterinary products and have triggered swift regulatory action.
Testing identified a bone and calcium multivitamin produced by an Islamabad pharmaceutical company as counterfeit. A well known cough syrup manufactured in Karachi was found adulterated and noncompliant with quality standards, while a pain injection made in Lahore contained dangerous particles that could pose a lethal risk to patients.
Two veterinary injections produced by firms in Lahore and Karachi were also deemed substandard, with laboratory analysis showing the active ingredient levels did not meet required specifications.
After the Drug Control Board’s notice, the Punjab Health Department ordered an immediate recall of the affected batches from medical stores across the province and warned that outlets continuing to sell these products will face strict legal action.
Consumers are urged to remain vigilant against fake medicines: check batch numbers when purchasing, obtain medicines only from licensed pharmacies, and report any suspected counterfeit or substandard products to local health authorities to help protect public and animal health.
