Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) strongly refutes the factually incorrect news reports circulating on various media channels regarding the recent increase in prices of medicines. The Authority formally clarifies that the prices of Essential Medicines, including insulin and other life-saving essential drugs, have not undergone any upward revision.
It is further clarified that the price mentioned in recent news reports refer to the Maximum Retail Prices (MRPs) already printed on medicine packs and insulin administering device (HumaPen Ergo II is insulin delivery pen for 4 to 5 years use) manufactured in 2024 or 2025 and wrongly portrayed as recent price hike. The Authority confirms that no new price increase has been approved for essential medicines in recent months and pharmaceutical manufacturers are strictly prohibited from implementing unilateral price hikes for any product listed on the National Essential Medicines List (NEML).
DRAP is also proactively monitoring the availability of drugs and has conducted a comprehensive review of supply chain of medicines and medical devices and found it satisfactory for coming months. About 85% of medicines consumed in Pakistan are manufactured locally and unaffected by current geographical disputes including Middle Eastern airspace and sea route disruptions. DRAP (As a National Regulator for Therapeutic Goods) has also issued 2 advisories to all manufacturers to have contingency planning and directed firms to adopt "multiple sourcing strategies" and "geographically diverse channels" to further strengthen supply chain resilience, ensuring that temporary cargo disruptions (if any) do not evolve into future shortages.
DRAP advises all news channels and media houses to verify information with the Authority before publication as it is imperative to provide authentic and fact-based news to avoid creating unnecessary panic or anxiety among the general public regarding the availability and affordability of life-saving essential medicines.
DRAP remains steadfast in its regulatory oversight, ensuring that the people of Pakistan have uninterrupted access to safe, effective, and quality-assured Therapeutic Goods.
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