The World Health Organization (WHO) has alerted the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) about counterfeit blood cancer medicines circulating in the country. The warning has raised concerns over patient safety and the risks linked with the use of fake medical products.
According to official documents, WHO contacted DRAP and shared samples of suspected counterfeit blood cancer medicines for investigation. Following the alert, DRAP issued rapid warnings about the fake products and advised against their sale and use.
The affected medicines include Darzalex injections and Jakavi tablets. Both medicines are used in the treatment of blood cancer.
DRAP Identifies Counterfeit Medicine Batches
DRAP confirmed that certain batches of Darzalex injections failed to meet required testing standards. The authority identified Darzalex Injection 400 mg with batch number STV1K01 as counterfeit.
Additionally, Darzalex Injection 100 mg with batch number MYS7381 was also declared fake.
Authorities traced some counterfeit Darzalex batches to countries including the Maldives and Mexico. Officials also found that counterfeit packaging carried the address of Janssen-Cilag Belgium.
Johnson & Johnson International declared the affected Darzalex batches counterfeit after reviewing the samples.
Similarly, DRAP identified fake batches of Jakavi tablets. Batch FNR06 of Jakavi 15mg tablets and batch SGL04 of Jakavi 10mg tablets were declared counterfeit.
The packaging of fake Jakavi tablets carried the address of Novartis Pharma Switzerland. Novartis also confirmed that the affected batches were counterfeit.
Fake Medicines Pose Serious Health Risks
DRAP stated that the counterfeit Darzalex injections and Jakavi tablets did not meet quality standards. Testing also showed problems with the verification of raw materials used in these medicines.
Furthermore, foreign particles were detected in samples of Darzalex injections. These findings increased concerns about the safety and effectiveness of the counterfeit products.
The health authority warned that the effectiveness of fake medicines remains uncertain. Moreover, their use could create serious health risks and may become life-threatening for cancer patients.
Authorities Advise Public to Stay Alert
DRAP has advised healthcare professionals, pharmacies, and patients to avoid using the affected medicine batches. The authority is also taking steps to prevent the distribution of counterfeit products in the market.
The WHO alert highlights the importance of strict monitoring of pharmaceutical supplies. Additionally, it shows the need for stronger action against fake medicines to protect patients receiving critical treatments.
Health experts have urged patients to purchase medicines only from trusted sources and immediately report any suspected counterfeit products to relevant authorities.
