In a sweeping regulatory move, the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan has taken strict notice of the growing online promotion and illegal sale of medicines, warning of serious risks to public health.
In a formal communication, DRAP has urged the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority to block websites and social media pages involved in unauthorised drug sales, as authorities intensify efforts to curb the spread of unregulated pharmaceuticals in the digital space.
Officials said multiple online platforms have been identified for marketing and selling medicines without approval, including alarming evidence of smuggled drugs entering Pakistan’s market through digital channels — particularly from neighboring countries such as India and Iran.
Rising Health Concerns
DRAP described the online sale of unregistered and smuggled medicines as a “serious threat” to public safety, cautioning that such products may be substandard and potentially dangerous. In its letter, the authority highlighted growing concerns over the promotion of prescription drugs without medical oversight across websites and social media platforms.
Particular alarm was raised over the illegal online sale of medicines related to sexual health, weight loss and mental health — categories often exploited by unverified sellers targeting vulnerable consumers.
“Misleading advertisements on digital platforms are increasingly encouraging self-medication,” the authority noted, warning that unsupervised drug use could lead to severe side effects and even life-threatening complications.
Regulatory Tightening
Reinforcing its stance, DRAP stated that prior approval is now mandatory for all pharmaceutical advertisements, stressing that any unauthorised promotion or sale constitutes a violation of drug laws.
The regulator has warned of strict enforcement measures, including fines, confiscation of medicines and legal proceedings against violators.
At the same time, DRAP has called on PTA to coordinate with global social media companies to remove illegal drug advertisements and curb their reach within Pakistan.
Public Advisory
In a public advisory, the authority urged citizens to avoid purchasing medicines from unverified online sources, emphasising the importance of consulting licensed medical professionals and obtaining drugs through authorised channels.
The latest action reflects increasing regulatory pressure to bring Pakistan’s rapidly expanding digital marketplace under tighter scrutiny, as authorities grapple with the health risks posed by unchecked online pharmaceutical sales.
