Pharma giants in trouble as DRAP takes action against Rogue Drug Ads on social media
2026-02-12 - 12:46
ISLAMABAD – Rogue medicine ads promising treatment have been flooding TV, social media, and billboards, putting public health at risk in Pakistan. Amid growing menace, DRAP launched strict crackdown, warning pharmaceutical and nutraceutical companies that no product can be advertised without prior approval under the Therapeutic Goods (Advertisement) Rules, 2025. Violations will be treated as legal offenses, with cases referred to the FIA and other authorities. The move targets unlicensed manufacturers, misleading claims, and unsafe products, sending a clear message: illegal medicine marketing will not be tolerated. Pharmaceutical and nutraceutical companies promoting medicines without approval got warning that law enforcement will now get involved in a big way. Authorities have raised alarms after a surge of unregulated advertisements flooding TV, Facebook, YouTube, TikTok, and even roadside billboards, often claiming miracle cures or guaranteed treatments for serious conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, infertility, sexual dysfunction, obesity, and mental health disorders. DRAP reminded industry that Therapeutic Goods (Advertisement) Rules, 2025 are now fully in effect. All manufacturers and importers must secure clearance from the DRAP Advertisement Board before any advertising, including simple product announcements. Companies ignoring this will face cognizable offenses and strict legal action. The crackdown also targets unlicensed pharmaceutical units and informal manufacturers illegally producing and selling medicines, including through social media pages, call centers, and courier services. DRAP warned these products could be substandard, unsafe, and a serious threat to public health. These cases are being referred to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) and other law enforcement bodies for immediate action. Industry associations have been ordered to inform their members and ensure full compliance, while DRAP promised priority consideration for applications submitted under the correct approval process. Violations, however, will not be tolerated and will result in legal consequences. This move underscores DRAP’s determination to protect consumers from misleading claims and unsafe medicines, sending a clear message: illegal marketing of therapeutic products will no longer be ignored. Fazal Din’s Pharma, Chughtai Lab among 66 sealed in Lahore