Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan has started a nationwide crackdown against substandard auto-disable syringes after identifying 17 faulty batches in the market. The regulator said the affected syringes did not meet the required safety standards and could pose serious health risks.
According to DRAP, the defective syringes ranged from 3ml to 5ml sizes. The authority immediately banned their sale and use across the country after laboratory testing confirmed safety failures.
The syringes were examined by the Central Drug Laboratory and the Drug Testing Laboratory Karachi. Test reports showed that the products failed the mandatory auto-disable functionality test. This mechanism is designed to stop syringes from being reused after one use.
Officials explained that faults in the locking system could allow the syringes to be used multiple times. Health experts warn that reused syringes can spread dangerous infections, including hepatitis and HIV.
DRAP said the affected batches were produced by 11 different companies. Three of the batches were linked to two Chinese manufacturers. The remaining companies are located in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The regulator has issued medical product alerts for all identified batches. Provincial drug authorities and field inspection teams have also been directed to trace the products in local markets and healthcare facilities.
DRAP instructed officials to carry out market surveys across the country. Authorities have also been ordered to seize available stocks of the defective syringes wherever they are found.
Manufacturers, importers, and distributors have been told to immediately recall the affected products from the market. The regulator said strict action will be taken to ensure public safety and prevent the circulation of unsafe medical products.
The latest move highlights growing concerns over the quality of medical supplies in Pakistan. Auto-disable syringes are considered important for infection control because they are designed for single use only.
Public health experts believe stronger monitoring and regular testing are necessary to stop unsafe products from entering the healthcare system. They also stressed the importance of using certified medical equipment in hospitals and clinics.
In other related news also read DRAP Bans Sale of These Three Medicines
DRAP said it will continue monitoring the market to ensure compliance with safety standards and protect public health across the country.
