The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) has issued a nationwide warning after the World Health Organization (WHO) reported the circulation of counterfeit medicines used to treat blood cancer. The regulator has instructed healthcare providers, pharmacies, and the public to stop using and selling the affected products immediately.
According to DRAP, the counterfeit medicines include Darzalex injections and Jakavi tablets, both commonly prescribed for patients with blood cancers. The affected products include fake batches of Darzalex 400 mg, Darzalex 100 mg, Jakavi 15 mg, and Jakavi 10 mg.
The WHO reported that the falsified Darzalex products were identified in the Maldives and Mexico, while counterfeit Jakavi packaging falsely displayed the address of Novartis Pharma Switzerland. DRAP also noted that fake Darzalex packaging carried the address of Janssen-Cilag Belgium, making the products appear genuine.
The regulator warned that laboratory analysis found the counterfeit medicines did not meet quality standards. Officials said the raw materials used in the products could not be verified, and one sample of Darzalex contained foreign particles, raising serious concerns about patient safety.
According to DRAP, counterfeit medicines pose significant health risks because their quality, safety, and effectiveness cannot be guaranteed. Patients receiving such medicines may fail to receive proper treatment and could face severe or life-threatening complications.
In response, DRAP has prohibited the sale, distribution, and use of all identified counterfeit batches across Pakistan. The authority has advised hospitals, pharmacies, healthcare professionals, and patients to carefully verify medicines before use and avoid purchasing products from unauthorized sources.
The regulator said it will continue monitoring the pharmaceutical market and work closely with relevant authorities to detect and remove falsified medicines from circulation. DRAP also urged anyone who identifies suspicious medicines to report them immediately so appropriate action can be taken to protect public health and ensure the availability of safe, quality-assured medicines.
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