In response to the recommendations from the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP), the Punjab government has taken decisive action by prohibiting the sale of five cough syrups due to contamination with diethylene glycol (DEG) and ethylene glycol (EG).
Pharmix Laboratories (Pvt) Ltd, based in Lahore, has identified as the distributor of Mucorid Syrup, Ulcofin Suspension, Alergo Syrup, Emidone Suspension, and Zincell Syrup in the local market, with international exports to various countries.
The investigation by DRAP prompted by the World Health Organization’s discovery of DEG/EG impurities in Alergo Syrup, which exported to the Maldives.
Following a preliminary inquiry, DRAP has issued a recall for specific batches of these syrups, with concerns also raised about potential impurities in other batches.
Between 2022 and 2023, multiple countries reported incidents involving oral liquid drugs intended for children, revealing high levels of DEG and EG contamination. Tragically, these incidents resulted in severe adverse events and fatalities in some regions.
The manufacturing company has instructed to promptly withdraw the faulty batches from the market. Pharmacists and chemists at distribution points and pharmacies urged to check their stocks immediately, cease the supply of the affected products, and quarantine any remaining stock for return to the supplier/company. DRAP and Provincial Health Departments’ regulatory field forces alerted and directed to enhance market surveillance to ensure the effective recall of defective products.
DRAP urges heightened vigilance in supply chains of institutions, pharmacies, and healthcare facilities affected by the batches. Report any adverse reactions or quality concerns to the National Pharmacovigilance Centre (NPC) at DRAP using the Adverse Event Reporting Form.
Consumers should stop using products with affected batch numbers and consult a healthcare provider for any related issues. Report incidents promptly to the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan/National Pharmacovigilance Centre.
, the Punjab government has taken decisive action by prohibiting the sale of five cough syrups due to contamination with diethylene glycol (DEG) and ethylene glycol (EG).){kind=link}