PM Takes Note of Over 60 Missing Essential Medicines

The prime minister has taken notice of the unavailability of essential medicines in the country and directed the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) to present a comprehensive report.

Meanwhile, DRAP CEO – Asim Rauf – has requested all the additional directors and provincial chief drug inspectors in the country to conduct a market survey and identify the list of medicines that are in short supply in the market.

According to sources, the provincial chief drug inspectors have been directed to provide their report on medicines that are unavailable and how long the shortage is expected to last, within 24 hours.

The letter sent to the officials stated that 60 essential medicines for psychological, mental, heart and other diseases are not currently available in Pakistan. It requested that all federal and provincial drug regulatory authorities investigate and report on the situation as soon as possible.