134. Recall Alert (Class-II) – CDL declared substandard – Henafim Paediatric Suspension

Recall Alert

DRUG PRODUCTS DECLARED SUBSTANDARD BY CENTRAL DRUG LABORATORY KARACHI.

DRAP Alert NoNo II/S/01-26-134
Action Date14 January, 2025.
Target Audience– National Regulatory Field Force.
– Healthcare Professionals – Physicians, Pharmacists, and Nurses at hospitals and clinics
– General Public
Problem / Issue Central Drug Laboratory (CDL) Karachi informed that the samples of below mentioned drug products have been declared as ‘Substandard’.

Therapeutic Goods (s) Affected: –

S#Product NameBatchManufacturersRemarks
1.Henafim Paediatric Suspension
Each 5ml contains: Paracetamol …. 120mg Chlorphineramine Maleate …. 1mg
(Reg. # 078545)
558M/s Wisdom Pharmaceutical Industry. (DML # 000780) 78-A Industrial Estate Hayatabad Peshawar.The samples have been declared  “Sub-Standard” on the basis  of assay test of Paracetamol (71%) & Chlorpheniramine Maleate (81%).
Risk Statement:The use of Henafim Paediatric Suspension, Batch No. 558, poses a potential risk to public health, particularly affecting infants and children, who are the primary users of this product for the management of fever, pain, and allergic symptoms. The product has been declared sub-standard due to low assay results of Paracetamol (71%) and Chlorpheniramine Maleate (81%), which may lead to inadequate therapeutic response, resulting in poor fever control, persistent discomfort, and unresolved allergic symptoms. This may prompt caregivers to administer repeated or higher doses, increasing the risk of medication misuse. Although not adulterated, the reduced potency of this paediatric formulation may compromise effective treatment in a vulnerable population, warranting regulatory attention and appropriate risk management.
Action Initiated– The regulatory field force of DRAP and Provincial Drug Control departments has been directed to immediately conduct market surveys for detection and removal of these products from the market.

– All pharmacists and chemists working at distributors and pharmacies should immediately check their stocks and stop supplying these products. The remaining stocks should be quarantined and returned to the supplier/company.

Distributors and pharmacies are advised to be vigilant and report any suspected batch of the product(s) in the supply chain to the DRAP using the online form, or by Email at gsmsdra.gov.pk.

Regulatory field force of all federating units (DRAP, Provincial Health Departments, and States) has also increased the surveillance in the market to ensure the effective recall of defective product(s).
Advice for Healthcare ProfessionalsDRAP requests to enhance vigilance within the supply chains of institutions/pharmacies/healthcare facilities likely to be affected by this defective batch of the product.  

-Adverse reactions or quality problems experienced with this product may be reported to the National Pharmacovigilance Centre(NPC), DRAP using the
Adverse Event Reporting Form or online through this link.

-Please click here for further information on problem reporting to DRAP.
Advice for Consumers-Consumers should stop using these product bearing the affected batch number(s). They shall contact their physician or healthcare provider(s) if they have experienced any problem that may be related to using this product.

-All therapeutic products must be obtained from authorized licensed pharmacies /outlets. Their authenticity and condition should be carefully checked. If you have any doubts, please seek advice from your pharmacist.

135. Rapid Alert – Unregistered OMNIVISC 2% (Substandard & Misbranded)

Rapid Alert

Unregistered, Substandard /Misbranded – OMNIVISC 2%

DRAP Alert NoNo I/S/01-26-135
Action Date21 January , 2026
Target Audience1. Regulatory Field Force of DRAP and Provincial Drug Control departments.
2. Healthcare Professionals
3. Pharmacies and medical stores
Problem StatementDrug Testing Laboratory, Punjab informed that samples of the below-mentioned products have been found unregistered and declared Substandard and Misbranded under the Drugs Act, 1976 and Drugs (Labeling & Packing) Rules, 1986.

The product identification details are as under: –

S#Product NameBatch No.ManufacturerRemarks
1.Omnivisc 2% (HPMC) Ophthalmic Solution USP, 5 mLOMV190171(purported to be manufactured by)
M/s Omni Lens Pvt. Ltd.,
Plot No. 17, Ambota, Sector-5, Parwanoo Distt. Solan (H.P.), India
The sample has been declared Substandard on the basis of failed sterility test (Non-sterile) and Misbranded due to labeling discrepancies including mismatch of batch number on labels, absence of Pakistan Drug Registration Number, absence of Urdu instructions, and non-mentioning of maximum retail price.
2Omnivisc 2% (HPMC) Ophthalmic Solution USP, 5 mLOMV191171(purported to be manufactured by)
M/s Omni Lens Pvt. Ltd.,
Plot No. 17, Ambota, Sector-5, Parwanoo Distt. Solan (H.P.), India
The sample has been declared Substandard on the basis of failed sterility test (Non-sterile) and Misbranded due to absence of Pakistan Drug Registration Number, incomplete labeling particulars including Urdu instructions and maximum retail price, in violation of Drugs Act, 1976 and Drugs (Labeling & Packing) Rules, 1986.
Risk StatementThe use of Omnivisc 2% (HPMC) Ophthalmic Solution, Batches OMV190171 and OMV191171, poses a serious and vision-threatening public health risk due to failure of sterility testing, rendering the product non-sterile, and due to misbranding. Ophthalmic preparations are required to be sterile, and the use of a non-sterile eye product may lead to severe ocular infections, including conjunctivitis, keratitis, endophthalmitis, corneal ulceration, and potential irreversible loss of vision or blindness. The absence of proper labeling information, including DRAP’s Drug Registration Number and usage instructions in Urdu, increases the risk of misuse, inappropriate dosing, prolonged use, and delayed medical intervention. Patients undergoing eye surgery, those with corneal injuries, contact lens users, and immunocompromised individuals are at particularly high risk. Continued circulation and use of these batches may therefore result in serious ocular morbidity, warranting immediate regulatory action and strict removal from the supply chain.
Action InitiatedThe Regulatory Field Force has been directed to conduct surveillance activities to confiscate the abovementioned falsified product.

All Pharmacists, chemists, and other healthcare professionals working at distributions, pharmacies, healthcare facilities, and other aspects of the supply chain system should immediately check the stock, and information related to the suppliers of such products should be provided to the Regulatory field force (DRAP, Provincial Drug Control Departments) to ensure the removal of these product from the circulation.
Advice for Healthcare ProfessionalsHealthcare professionals, including ophthalmologists, general practitioners, pharmacists, and nursing staff, are advised to exercise heightened vigilance regarding the use and supply of Omnivisc 2% (HPMC) Ophthalmic Solution, Batch Nos. OMV190171 and OMV191171. They should immediately discontinue prescribing, dispensing, or administering these batches and ensure their removal from institutional and retail inventories. Patients who may have been exposed to these products should be clinically evaluated for signs of ocular infection or adverse reactions, particularly post-operative eye patients and contact lens users.
Any adverse events or quality problems experienced with the use of these products should be reported to  National or Provincial pharmacovigilance centers using Adverse Event Reporting Form or online through this link.  Further information on reporting problems to DRAP is available on this link.
Advice for ConsumersConsumers are strongly advised to immediately stop using Omnivisc 2% (HPMC) Ophthalmic Solution, particularly Batch Nos. OMV190171 and OMV191171, and to check product labels and batch numbers carefully. Any remaining stock should be isolated and returned to the point of purchase and not used further. Individuals who have already used these eye drops and experience symptoms such as eye redness, pain, discharge, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, or worsening of eye condition should seek immediate medical attention from an ophthalmologist. Patients who have recently undergone eye surgery, suffered eye trauma, or have underlying eye infections are at higher risk and should be especially vigilant. Consumers are also encouraged to report the product and any suspected adverse effects to the relevant health authority to help prevent further harm and protect public health.

133. Recall Alert (Class-I) – Tablet BP-NORM (Substandard & Adulterated)

Recall Alert

DRUG PRODUCT DECLARED SUBSTANDARD & ADULTERATED BY DRUG TESTING LABORATORIES, PUNJAB.

DRAP Alert NoNo I/S/01-26-133
Action Date21 January, 2025.
Target Audience– National Regulatory Field Force.
– Healthcare Professionals – Physicians, Pharmacists, and Nurses at hospitals and clinics
– General Public
Problem / Issue Drug Testing Laboratories of Punjab Province informed that the samples of below mentioned drug products have been declared as ‘Substandard & Adulterated’.

Therapeutic Goods (s) Affected: –

S#Product NameBatch No.ManufacturersRemarks
1.Tablet. BP-NORM Atenolol … 50mg (Reg. # 071447)5968P485M/s Neutro Pharma (Pvt) Ltd. 9.5-Km Sheikhupura Road Lahore. (DML # 000576)The sample has been declared Substandard on the basis of failed assay of Atenolol, &Adulterated as per Section 3 (a) (v) of The Drugs Act 1976 (confirmed presence of an undeclared active ingredient i.e.  Ciprofloxacin HCl)
Risk Statement:The use of BP-NORM (Atenolol 50 mg), Batch No. 5968P485, presents a serious risk to public health, particularly for patients with cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, ischemic heart disease, arrhythmias, and the elderly who depend on consistent atenolol therapy. The product is substandard due to failed assay of atenolol, which may result in loss of therapeutic control, and is adulterated by the confirmed presence of an undeclared active ingredient, Ciprofloxacin HCl. This may expose patients to unintended antibiotic intake, leading to adverse reactions, drug interactions, and development of antimicrobial resistance, especially in vulnerable patients. Continued use of this batch may therefore cause significant harm, warranting immediate risk mitigation.
Action Initiated– The regulatory field force of DRAP and Provincial Drug Control departments has been directed to immediately conduct market surveys for detection and removal of these products from the market.

– All pharmacists and chemists working at distributors and pharmacies should immediately check their stocks and stop supplying these products. The remaining stocks should be quarantined and returned to the supplier/company.

Distributors and pharmacies are advised to be vigilant and report any suspected batch of the product(s) in the supply chain to the DRAP using the online form, or by Email at gsmsdra.gov.pk.

Regulatory field force of all federating units (DRAP, Provincial Health Departments, and States) has also increased the surveillance in the market to ensure the effective recall of defective product(s).
Advice for Healthcare ProfessionalsDRAP requests to enhance vigilance within the supply chains of institutions/pharmacies/healthcare facilities likely to be affected by this defective batch of the product.  

-Adverse reactions or quality problems experienced with this product may be reported to the National Pharmacovigilance Centre(NPC), DRAP using the
Adverse Event Reporting Form or online through this link.

-Please click here for further information on problem reporting to DRAP.
Advice for Consumers-Consumers should stop using these product bearing the affected batch number(s). They shall contact their physician or healthcare provider(s) if they have experienced any problem that may be related to using this product.

-All therapeutic products must be obtained from authorized licensed pharmacies /outlets. Their authenticity and condition should be carefully checked. If you have any doubts, please seek advice from your pharmacist.

132. Recall Alert – Veterinary Products – Substandard by DTLs Punjab.

Recall Alert

VETERINARY DRUG PRODUCTS DECLARED SUBSTANDARD BY PROVINCIAL DRUG TESTING LABORATORIES.

DRAP Alert NoNo I/S/01-26-132
Action Date14 January, 2026.
Target Audience·         National Regulatory Field Force of DRAP and Provincial Drug Control Departments.
·         Healthcare Professionals-Veterinarians
·         Farmers/consumers
Problem / Issue Drug Testing Laboratories, Punjab informed that the sample of below mentioned Veterinary Drug products have been declared as ‘Substandard’.

Therapeutic Goods (s) Affected: –

S#Product DetailsBatch #Manufacturer detailsRemarks
1Injection, Actimec 10ml Ivermectin: 10 mg/ml (Reg # 034595)  AM-164M/s Selmore Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd. 36 Km Off. Multan Road Lahore. (DML # 000507)The sample is declared as “Sub-Standard” on the basis of Assay Test & Test for Related Substances.
2MAC ROLD 1% 50ml Ivermectin: 10 mg/ml (Reg # 106810)YI-146M/s Haarlods Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd. Plot No.60-64/C, Small Industrial Estate, Bhimber, AJK. (DML # 000921)The sample is declared as “Sub-Standard” on the basis of Assay Test, sterility test & Related Substances, while misbranded as per section 3(s)(vi) of the Drugs Act,1976. (Product does not contain Finished Drug Product Specifications)
Risk Statement:The above veterinary ivermectin injectable products have been declared Sub-Standard due to failures in Assay, Related Substances, and Sterility tests, with one product also found misbranded for not meeting Finished Drug Product specifications. Use of such compromised injections may result in treatment failure, toxicity, infections, or adverse reactions in animals. The public most likely to be affected includes livestock farmers, dairy and meat producers, veterinarians, and animal handlers, as defective treatment can lead to animal illness, reduced productivity, economic losses, and potential downstream risks to milk and meat safety.
Action Initiated– The regulatory field force of DRAP and Provincial Drug Control departments has been directed to immediately conduct market surveys for detection and removal of these products from the market.

– All pharmacists and chemists working at distributors and pharmacies should immediately check their stocks and stop supplying these products. The remaining stocks should be quarantined and returned to the supplier/company.

Distributors and pharmacies are advised to be vigilant and report any suspected batch of the product(s) in the supply chain to the DRAP using the online form, or by Email at gsmsdra.gov.pk.

Regulatory field force of all federating units (DRAP, Provincial Health Departments, and States) has also increased the surveillance in the market to ensure the effective recall of defective product(s).
Advice for VeterinarianThis alert applies strictly to the specific batches listed above and does not apply to other batches of the same products. Veterinarians are therefore advised not to prescribe, administer, or stock these identified batches under any circumstances. In case any of the above-mentioned batches have already been administered, treated animals should be closely monitored for possible signs of infection, treatment failure, or adverse reactions, and appropriate supportive care must be provided. Any suspected adverse events or quality-related problems linked to these batches should be reported immediately to DRAP’s Pharmacovigilance Centre and to the Provincial Livestock & Dairy Development Departments. Practitioners are further advised to ensure that only alternative registered and quality-assured batches are used in veterinary practice.
Advice for Farmers and Livestock OwnersFarmers and livestock owners are advised to immediately stop using the affected batch and isolate all remaining stock. Closely monitor treated animals for fever, swelling at the injection site, reduced appetite, or any sudden illness, and consult a veterinarian if such symptoms appear. Until animals are clinically stable, avoid selling or using milk or meat from visibly unwell animals. The affected product should be returned to the supplier or distributor according to recall instructions. Farmers are further advised to maintain proper records of batch numbers, treatment dates, and suppliers for traceability, and to ensure that only sterile, approved veterinary injections are used and stored under recommended conditions.

131. Recall Alert (Class-II) – DTLs Punjab Declared Substandard products.

Recall Alert

DRUG PRODUCTS DECLARED SUBSTANDARD BY DRUG TESTING LABORATORIES PUNJAB.

DRAP Alert NoNo II/S/01-26-131
Action Date14 January, 2025.
Target Audience– National Regulatory Field Force.
– Healthcare Professionals – Physicians, Pharmacists, and Nurses at hospitals and clinics
– General Public
Problem / Issue Drug Testing Laboratories of Provinces informed that the samples of below mentioned drug products have been declared as ‘Substandard’.

Therapeutic Goods (s) Affected: –

S#Product NameBatch No.ManufacturersRemarks
1.Tablet. Megadip Each tablel contains: Amlodipine as Besylate USP…. 5mg (Reg. # 071447)25F278M/s Mega Pharmaceuticals Ltd. 27 Km Raiwind Road Lahore (DML # 000537)The samples have been declared Sub-standard with regards to Impurities test.
2.Tablet Ascard 75 mg Each Enteric Coated Tablet contains: Aspirin 75 mg (Reg # 016600)AR049LM/s Atco Laboratories Limited, B-18 S.I.T.E Karachi. (DML # 000188)The samples have been declared Sub-standard with regards to Test for Related substances (Impurity C: Salicylic Acid).
4.Tablet CENEX 10 mg Cetirizine dihydrochloride 10mg (Reg # 032103)422  M/s Dr. Raza Pharma.  Road B-4 P.No 44-C Indus: Estate Jamrud Road Peshawar. (DML # 000387)The sample is declared as “Sub-Standard” on the basis of test for Impurities i.e. Organic Impurities.
5.Tablet Valron-P Each Sugar Coated Tablet contains: Diclofenac Sodium …. 50 mg (Reg # 030760)T-03624M/s Venus Pharma.   23 Km Multan Road Lahore. (DML # 000300)The sample is declared as “Sub-Standard” on the basis of Disintegration and Dissolution Test.
Risk Statement:The presence of excessive impurities, toxic contaminants, and performance failures in Megadip (amlodipine), Ascard (aspirin), Entagyl suspension (metronidazole), Cenex (cetirizine), and Valron-P (diclofenac) poses a significant risk to patient safety. Elevated levels of impurities, including salicylic acid, organic impurities, and ethylene glycol, may lead to toxicity, organ damage, allergic reactions, and gastrointestinal or neurological complications, while poor disintegration and dissolution can cause treatment failure or unpredictable dosing. The public most likely to be affected includes patients with heart disease, hypertension, infections, allergies, and chronic pain, particularly elderly patients, children, and those with kidney, liver, or cardiovascular disorders, where compromised medicine quality may result in serious and potentially life-threatening outcomes.
Action Initiated– The regulatory field force of DRAP and Provincial Drug Control departments has been directed to immediately conduct market surveys for detection and removal of these products from the market.

– All pharmacists and chemists working at distributors and pharmacies should immediately check their stocks and stop supplying these products. The remaining stocks should be quarantined and returned to the supplier/company.

Distributors and pharmacies are advised to be vigilant and report any suspected batch of the product(s) in the supply chain to the DRAP using the online form, or by Email at gsmsdra.gov.pk.

Regulatory field force of all federating units (DRAP, Provincial Health Departments, and States) has also increased the surveillance in the market to ensure the effective recall of defective product(s).
Advice for Healthcare ProfessionalsDRAP requests to enhance vigilance within the supply chains of institutions/pharmacies/healthcare facilities likely to be affected by this defective batch of the product.  

-Adverse reactions or quality problems experienced with this product may be reported to the National Pharmacovigilance Centre(NPC), DRAP using the
Adverse Event Reporting Form or online through this link.

-Please click here for further information on problem reporting to DRAP.
Advice for Consumers-Consumers should stop using these product bearing the affected batch number(s). They shall contact their physician or healthcare provider(s) if they have experienced any problem that may be related to using this product.

-All therapeutic products must be obtained from authorized licensed pharmacies /outlets. Their authenticity and condition should be carefully checked. If you have any doubts, please seek advice from your pharmacist.

130. Recall Alert – Drug Testing Laboratories, Punjab – Substandard products.

Recall Alert

DRUG PRODUCTS DECLARED SUBSTANDARD BY CENTRAL DRUG LABORATORY KARACHI.

DRAP Alert NoNo I/S/01-26-130
Action Date14 January, 2025.
Target Audience– National Regulatory Field Force.
– Healthcare Professionals – Physicians, Pharmacists, and Nurses at hospitals and clinics
– General Public
Problem / Issue Central Drug Laboratory (CDL) Karachi informed that the samples of below mentioned drug products have been declared as ‘Substandard’.

Therapeutic Goods (s) Affected: –

S#Product NameBatch No.ManufacturersRemarks
1.Injection Neocobal Mecobalamin: 0.5 mg/ML (Reg. # 071447)S-2901M/s Pulse Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd.  Mozay Badoke Raiwind Road (Sua Asil Road) Lahore. (DML # 000564)The samples have been declared Sub-standard with regards to Assay and Adulterated as per Section 3 (a) (v) of The Drugs Act 1976.
2.Injection Kamedex 1 ml Each ml contains: Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate eq. to Dexamethasone phosphate …… 4 mg (Reg. # 074983)  DX-2485M/s Amaan Pharma.  30-Km Sheikhupura Road Lahore  (DML # 000808)The sample has been declared Adulterated as per Section 3 (a) (v) of The Drugs Act 1976 (label claims Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate equivalent to Dexamethasone Phosphate 4 mg/mL, laboratory analysis identified Dexamethasone base at a much lower level, rendering the composition false and misleading).  
3.Unisol NS Infusion 100ml Each 100 ml contains: Sodium Chloride …. 0.9g5109040M/s Unisa Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.  Main GT Road Adamzai Akora Khattak District Nowshera. (DML # 000740)The sample has been declared Sub-standard on the basis of Bacterial Endotoxin test.
4.Isobaj Injection 10ml Each ml contains: Isosorbide Dinitrate ……. 1mg (Reg # 100721)IB-1125M/s Bajwa Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd. 36-Km Lahore Gujranwala Road Khori District Sheikhupura. (DML # 000805)The sample is declared as “Sub-Standard” on the basis of Bacterial Endotoxins Test (BET) & “Misbranded” as per section 3 (s) (iv) of the Drugs Act 1976.  (sample does not comply with definition of BP monograph of “Isosorbide Dinitrate Injection” which states that “It is supplied as a ready-to-use solution”. While label mentions “Must be Diluted Prior to use on primary as well as secondary package of sample, that is contradictory with definition. Therefore, the sample is MISBRANDED).  
5.Infusion ZEESOL-H (RINGER LACTATE) Each 1000 ml contains: Calcium chloride 2H2O 0.27gms, Potassium Chloride 0.40 gms, Sodium Chloride 6.00gms, sodium lactate 3.20gms water for injection q.s (Reg # 019752)  2503281M/s Shazeb Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.  Hazara Trunk Road Sarai Gadaee Dist.: Haripur. (DML # 000380)The sample has been declared Sub-standard on the basis of Sterility test.
6.Injection Neudex Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate eq. to Dexamethasone Phosphate: 4mg/ml  (Reg. # 32876)DX079, DX080, DX064, DX060, DX042, DX063, DX072, DX067, DX068, DX070, DX065M/s Neutro Pharma (Pvt) Ltd. 9.5-Km Sheikhupura Road Lahore. (DML # 000576)The sample has been declared Adulterated as per Section 3 (a) (v) of The Drugs Act 1976 (label claims Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate equivalent to Dexamethasone Phosphate 4 mg/mL, laboratory analysis identified Dexamethasone base at a much lower level, rendering the composition false and misleading).
7.Entagyl Oral Suspension 400ml Each 5ml suspension contains: Benzoyl Metronidazole equivalent to 200mg of Metronidazole BP. (Reg # 087947)  272M/s BJ Pharmaceuticals. Mandialai Stop Bhattianwala Road 18-Km Lahore Sheikhupura Road, Lahore. (DML# 000770)The sample is Sub-Standard with regards to presence of impurity (Ethylene Glycol), above the permissible limit.
Risk Statement:The identified quality defects in Neocobal Injection (mecobalamin), Kamedex Injection (dexamethasone), and Unisol NS Infusion present a serious risk to patient safety. Sub-standard potency and adulteration in injectable medicines may lead to treatment failure, incorrect dosing, and unpredictable clinical response, while contamination with bacterial endotoxins can cause fever, shock, and life-threatening reactions. The public most likely to be affected includes hospitalized patients, emergency and critically ill patients, children, pregnant women, and patients receiving steroid therapy, vitamin B12 injections, or intravenous fluids, where even small deviations in quality can result in severe and potentially fatal outcomes.
Action Initiated– The regulatory field force of DRAP and Provincial Drug Control departments has been directed to immediately conduct market surveys for detection and removal of these products from the market.

– All pharmacists and chemists working at distributors and pharmacies should immediately check their stocks and stop supplying these products. The remaining stocks should be quarantined and returned to the supplier/company.

Distributors and pharmacies are advised to be vigilant and report any suspected batch of the product(s) in the supply chain to the DRAP using the online form, or by Email at gsmsdra.gov.pk.

Regulatory field force of all federating units (DRAP, Provincial Health Departments, and States) has also increased the surveillance in the market to ensure the effective recall of defective product(s).
Advice for Healthcare ProfessionalsDRAP requests to enhance vigilance within the supply chains of institutions/pharmacies/healthcare facilities likely to be affected by this defective batch of the product.  

-Adverse reactions or quality problems experienced with this product may be reported to the National Pharmacovigilance Centre(NPC), DRAP using the
Adverse Event Reporting Form or online through this link.

-Please click here for further information on problem reporting to DRAP.
Advice for Consumers-Consumers should stop using these product bearing the affected batch number(s). They shall contact their physician or healthcare provider(s) if they have experienced any problem that may be related to using this product.

-All therapeutic products must be obtained from authorized licensed pharmacies /outlets. Their authenticity and condition should be carefully checked. If you have any doubts, please seek advice from your pharmacist.

129. Recall Alert(Class-I) – DIFAM Injection 3ml (Bosch Pharma) – Substandard

Recall Alert

DRUG PRODUCTS DECLARED SUBSTANDARD BY CENTRAL DRUG LABORATORY KARACHI.

DRAP Alert NoNo II/S/01-26-129
Action Date14 January, 2025.
Target Audience– National Regulatory Field Force.
– Healthcare Professionals – Physicians, Pharmacists, and Nurses at hospitals and clinics
– General Public
Problem / Issue Central Drug Laboratory (CDL) Karachi informed that the samples of below mentioned drug products have been declared as ‘Substandard’.

Therapeutic Goods (s) Affected: –

S#Product NameBatch No.ManufacturersRemarks
1.DIFAM Injection 3ml Diclofenac Sodium (75mg/3ml) (Reg. # 014651-EX)D260005, D260006M/s Bosch Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd. (DML # 000707)  Plot No. 209 Sector 23 Korangi Industrial Area Karachi.The samples have been declared  “Sub-Standard” on the basis  of assay test.
Risk Statement:Use of a sub-standard injectable diclofenac may lead to therapeutic failure or overdose-related toxicity, including inadequate pain and inflammation control, gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney injury, cardiovascular complications, and injection-site reactions. The groups most likely to be affected include patients receiving injections for acute pain, post-operative pain, arthritis, trauma, and emergency care, particularly elderly patients, individuals with kidney, heart or gastric disease, and hospitalized patients, where incorrect dosing may result in serious and potentially life-threatening outcomes.
Action Initiated– The regulatory field force of DRAP and Provincial Drug Control departments has been directed to immediately conduct market surveys for detection and removal of these products from the market.

– All pharmacists and chemists working at distributors and pharmacies should immediately check their stocks and stop supplying these products. The remaining stocks should be quarantined and returned to the supplier/company.

Distributors and pharmacies are advised to be vigilant and report any suspected batch of the product(s) in the supply chain to the DRAP using the online form, or by Email at gsmsdra.gov.pk.

Regulatory field force of all federating units (DRAP, Provincial Health Departments, and States) has also increased the surveillance in the market to ensure the effective recall of defective product(s).
Advice for Healthcare ProfessionalsDRAP requests to enhance vigilance within the supply chains of institutions/pharmacies/healthcare facilities likely to be affected by this defective batch of the product.  

-Adverse reactions or quality problems experienced with this product may be reported to the National Pharmacovigilance Centre(NPC), DRAP using the
Adverse Event Reporting Form or online through this link.

-Please click here for further information on problem reporting to DRAP.
Advice for Consumers-Consumers should stop using these product bearing the affected batch number(s). They shall contact their physician or healthcare provider(s) if they have experienced any problem that may be related to using this product.

-All therapeutic products must be obtained from authorized licensed pharmacies /outlets. Their authenticity and condition should be carefully checked. If you have any doubts, please seek advice from your pharmacist.

128. Rapid Alert – Eventone-C Creams & LUFA Advanced Pain Relief Gel Containing Unauthorized Pharmaceutical Ingredient(s)

Rapid Alert

Unregistered and Falsified Cosmetic Cream Containing Unauthorized Pharmaceutical Ingredient(s)

DRAP Alert NoNo I/S/01-26-128
Action Date14 January , 2026
Target Audience1. Regulatory Field Force of DRAP and Provincial Drug Control departments.
2. Healthcare Professionals
3. Pharmacies and medical stores
Problem StatementCentral Drugs Laboratory (CDL) Karachi informed that Laboratory analysis of Below mentioned Cream, marketed for skin fairness and treatment of skin darkness (cosmetic products) & a Gel marketed for pain relief, confirmed the presence of steroids (prescription-only corticosteroid). These products were being marketed as a cosmetic without declaring this pharmaceutical ingredient and without registration or authorization from the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP).
The presence of a potent medicinal substance in a cosmetic product constitutes misrepresentation of identity, composition, and regulatory status, rendering the product an Unregistered and Falsified Drug Product under the Drugs Act, 1976.

The product identification d

S#Product NameBatch No.ManufacturerRemarks
1.Eventone-C Cream12706M/s Pharma Health Pakistan Pvt. Ltd.  The sample has been declared “Un-registered/falsified” under the Drugs Act 1976 because Hydrocortisone has been identified as suspected by Federal Inspector of Drugs.  
2LUFA Advanced Pain Relief Gel25C372M/s ASR Global Traders  The sample has been declared “Un-registered/falsified” under the Drugs Act 1976 because Betamethasone has been identified as suspected by Federal Inspector of Drugs.  

etails are as under: –

Risk StatementThe identification of hydrocortisone in Eventone-C Cream and betamethasone in LUFA Advanced Pain Relief Gel, both of which are prescription-only corticosteroids, in products being marketed without registration or authorization poses a serious public health risk. Use of these substances without medical supervision may result in skin thinning, steroid-induced acne, pigmentation disorders, delayed wound healing, suppression of local immunity, masking of infections, and worsening of underlying skin diseases. As these products are falsely presented as ordinary cosmetic and topical preparations, users are unknowingly exposed to potent pharmaceutical agents, increasing the risk of prolonged misuse, dependency, and irreversible skin damage, particularly in women, children, and long-term users.

Action InitiatedThe Regulatory Field Force has been directed to conduct surveillance activities to confiscate the abovementioned falsified product.

All Pharmacists, chemists, and other healthcare professionals working at distributions, pharmacies, healthcare facilities, and other aspects of the supply chain system should immediately check the stock, and information related to the suppliers of such products should be provided to the Regulatory field force (DRAP, Provincial Drug Control Departments) to ensure the removal of these product from the circulation.
Advice for Healthcare ProfessionalsDRAP requests healthcare professionals to have increased vigilance within the supply chains of institutions/pharmacies/healthcare facilities likely to be affected by above mentioned product. Any adverse events or quality problems experienced with the use of these products should be reported to National or Provincial pharmacovigilance centers using Adverse Event Reporting Form or online through this link.  Further information on reporting problems to DRAP is available on this link.
Advice for ConsumersParents, caregivers, pharmacies, retailers, and online sellers are strongly advised to immediately check product names and batch numbers, stop use and sale of affected batches, and remove them from circulation. Consumers who have already used these products and observe any adverse symptoms in infants should seek immediate medical attention and report the case to the relevant health authority.
This alert is issued in the interest of public health and infant safety, and dissemination through healthcare facilities, pharmacies, online platforms, and social media is strongly recommended.

127. Rapid Alert – Falsified Duphalac Syrup (Batch # 251986127 )

Rapid Alert

CRACKDOWN AGAINST FALSIFIED / SPURIOUS/ UNREGISTERED DUPHALAC SYRUP 100 ML

DRAP Alert NoNo I/S/12-25-127
Action Date30 December, 2025
Target Audience1. Regulatory Field Force of DRAP and Provincial Drug Control departments.
2. Healthcare Professionals
3. Pharmacies and medical stores
Problem StatementThe Drug Testing Laboratory (DTL), Punjab has informed the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan that a sample of the below-mentioned drug product has been declared spurious upon analysis.
The contract manufacturer, M/s Highnoon Laboratories Ltd., 17.5 Km Multan Road, Lahore (DML No. 000155), for the genuine registration/marketing authorization holder, M/s Abbott Laboratories (Pakistan) Ltd., Karachi, of Duphalac Syrup, has confirmed that the impugned batch was not manufactured by them and is therefore spurious.
The product is purported to be manufactured by M/s Abbott Laboratories Co., Canada, and has been declared “Unregistered (Falsified)”.

The product identification details are as under: –

S#Product NameBatch No.ManufacturerRemarks
1.Syrup Duphalac 100ml Each 100 ml contains: Lactulose ……. 66.7 g  251986Purported to be manufactured by M/s Abbott Laboratories Co. Canada.  The sample has been declared “Spurious” as per Section 3(zb)(i) & (ii) of the Drugs Act 1976.  
Risk StatementThe circulation of a spurious and unregistered Duphalac Syrup (Lactulose) poses a significant risk to public health, particularly to pediatric patients, elderly individuals, and patients with chronic constipation or hepatic disorders, who are the primary users of this product. As the impugned batch was not manufactured by the authorized contract manufacturer and lacks regulatory oversight, there is a heightened risk of incorrect composition, contamination, reduced or excessive strength, and therapeutic failure, which may lead to worsening of disease, electrolyte imbalance, dehydration, or other serious adverse health outcomes.

Action InitiatedThe Regulatory Field Force has been directed to conduct surveillance activities to confiscate the abovementioned falsified product.

All Pharmacists, chemists, and other healthcare professionals working at distributions, pharmacies, healthcare facilities, and other aspects of the supply chain system should immediately check the stock, and information related to the suppliers of such products should be provided to the Regulatory field force (DRAP, Provincial Drug Control Departments) to ensure the removal of these product from the circulation.
Advice for Healthcare ProfessionalsDRAP requests healthcare professionals to have increased vigilance within the supply chains of institutions/pharmacies/healthcare facilities likely to be affected by above mentioned product. Any adverse events or quality problems experienced with the use of these products should be reported to National or Provincial pharmacovigilance centers using Adverse Event Reporting Form or online through this link.  Further information on reporting problems to DRAP is available on this link.
Advice for ConsumersConsumers should not use these products and should contact their physician or healthcare provider(s) if they have experienced any problem related to taking or using the above mentioned products and should report the incident to the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan / National Pharmacovigilance Centre.

All therapeutic goods must be obtained from licensed pharmacies and other authorized/licensed retail outlets. The authenticity and condition of products should be carefully checked. Seek advice from your pharmacists or other healthcare professionals in case of any doubt.

126. Recall Alert (Class-I) – Injection Cara-Doba 5ml – Substandard

Recall Alert

DRUG PRODUCTS DECLARED SUBSTANDARD BY PROVINCIAL DRUGS TESTING LABORATORY.

DRAP Alert NoNo II/S/12-25-126
Action Date30 December, 2025.
Target Audience– National Regulatory Field Force.
– Healthcare Professionals – Physicians, Pharmacists, and Nurses at hospitals and clinics
– General Public
Problem / Issue Drug Testing Laboratory (DTL) Punjab informed that the samples of below mentioned drug products have been declared as ‘Substandard’.

Therapeutic Goods (s) Affected: –

S#Product NameBatch No.ManufacturersRemarks
1.Injection Cara-Doba 5ml Each 5ml Ampoule contains: Dobutamine HCl eq. to Dobutamine …. 250mg (Reg. # 054987)24J009 & 25E004M/s Caraway Pharmaceuticals. Plot No. 12 Street No. N-3 National Industrial Zone (RCCI) Rawat. (DML # 000629)  Batch # 24J009 The sample has been declared Sub-Standard, on the basis of Physical Description and Visible Particulates.   Batch # 25E004 The Color has been changed to dark brown with crystallization. (Physical Description and Visible Particulates).
Risk Statement:The administration of sub-standard injectable Dobutamine with visible particulates, discoloration, and crystallization poses a serious and immediate risk to patient safety, particularly for critically ill patients, cardiac patients, and those receiving intensive or emergency care, where Dobutamine is commonly used for acute cardiac support. Such quality defects may lead to embolism, phlebitis, systemic infections, reduced therapeutic efficacy, or unpredictable pharmacological response, potentially resulting in treatment failure, hemodynamic instability, or life-threatening complications, thereby warranting urgent regulatory intervention.
Action Initiated– The regulatory field force of DRAP and Provincial Drug Control departments has been directed to immediately conduct market surveys for detection and removal of these products from the market.

– All pharmacists and chemists working at distributors and pharmacies should immediately check their stocks and stop supplying these products. The remaining stocks should be quarantined and returned to the supplier/company.

Distributors and pharmacies are advised to be vigilant and report any suspected batch of the product(s) in the supply chain to the DRAP using the online form, or by Email at gsmsdra.gov.pk.

Regulatory field force of all federating units (DRAP, Provincial Health Departments, and States) has also increased the surveillance in the market to ensure the effective recall of defective product(s).
Advice for Healthcare ProfessionalsDRAP requests to enhance vigilance within the supply chains of institutions/pharmacies/healthcare facilities likely to be affected by this defective batch of the product.  

-Adverse reactions or quality problems experienced with this product may be reported to the National Pharmacovigilance Centre(NPC), DRAP using the
Adverse Event Reporting Form or online through this link.

-Please click here for further information on problem reporting to DRAP.
Advice for Consumers-Consumers should stop using these product bearing the affected batch number(s). They shall contact their physician or healthcare provider(s) if they have experienced any problem that may be related to using this product.

-All therapeutic products must be obtained from authorized licensed pharmacies /outlets. Their authenticity and condition should be carefully checked. If you have any doubts, please seek advice from your pharmacist.