DRAP bans counterfeit medicine after failing quality test

The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) has issued a product recall alert for fake Mirzpan Suspension, reported 24NewS HD TV channel on Monday. 

The DRAP suspended the use of Mirzpan Suspension and imposed a complete ban on its supply and sale, following the discovery of counterfeit antibiotics in Balochistan. 

The decision was taken after laboratory tests confirmed the presence of fake Mirzpan Suspension in the market.

According to official details, Batch 007 of Mirzpan Suspension was tested at a drug testing lab in Quetta, which declared it counterfeit. The 100 mg pack of the antibiotic failed to meet quality control standards, as the presence of Cefixime salt—a key ingredient—could not be verified.

Further investigation revealed that the packaging contained fabricated details, with the 5 ml pack falsely listing Miraaz Pharma, Kasur, as the manufacturer, along with a fake registration number on the sample’s packaging. 

In response, DRAP issued a product recall alert, prohibiting the use, sale, and supply of the affected batch across the country.

Concerned about public health risks, DRAP has directed its field force to seize the counterfeit Mirzpan Suspension from the market. 

Additionally, provincial drug control authorities have been instructed to intensify market surveillance, ensuring no further distribution of the fake antibiotic.

 The Balochistan government has been urged to identify and take action against suppliers responsible for circulating counterfeit medicine. Meanwhile, distributors have been advised to check their stock and report any affected batches to DRAP immediately.

 The regulatory authority has strongly advised doctors and patients to avoid using counterfeit Mirzpan Suspension, warning that fake antibiotics could pose severe health risks.