Islamabad Cracks Down on Unlicensed Medicine Sales at Clinics
The Ministry of National Health Services in Islamabad has taken strict measures to curb the sale of medicines at registered clinics without proper licensing. This development follows a recent ruling by the Constitutional Court, emphasizing the need for regulatory compliance in the federal capital.
According to a directive issued by Sardar Shabbir Ahmed, Secretary of the Quality Control Board and Senior Drug Inspector at the Islamabad Health Department, all clinics must hold a valid drug sale license to legally dispense medicines. The sale of pharmaceuticals without this authorization is considered an offense punishable under current laws.
In a letter addressed to the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC), Islamabad Healthcare Regulatory Authority (IHRA), and the District Health Officer (DHO), the Ministry instructed these bodies to implement actions against unauthorized medical outlets, including illegal pharmacies operating in clinics.
The regulation stipulates that even licensed clinics may only sell medicines within specific prescribed limits. Furthermore, registered doctors have been directed to acquire the necessary drug sale licenses promptly. Distributors have also been warned against supplying medicines to unauthorized pharmacies functioning within healthcare facilities.
To ensure compliance, the ministry has tasked pharmacy services and drug control teams with monitoring and enforcing these regulations. Regular supervision of registered clinics, medical stores, and pharmacies across Islamabad will intensify to prevent unlawful drug sales.
Authorities emphasize that these steps aim to safeguard public health by ensuring that medicines are dispensed responsibly and in accordance with legal standards. The crackdown on unlicensed sales underscores Islamabad’s commitment to improving healthcare quality and patient safety.
