PTA takes action against digital content involving illegal therapeutic goods sale

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) came in action against illegal sale of therapeutic goods via websites and social media pages and got the content removed, according to a press statement issued by the authority on Wednesday.

The therapeutic goods may be including medicines, medical devices, and vaccines, it was learnt.

PTA said in the statement that it initiated action against websites and social media pages that were involved in sale of unauthorised and unregistered therapeutic goods upon receiving a request from the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP).

“PTA undertook necessary enforcement measures to restrict access to the identified content. The concerned websites have confirmed removal of the illegal products, while the matter is being actively pursued with social media platforms for early takedown of reported pages and groups,” the statement read.

“PTA remains committed to supporting national regulatory efforts to safeguard public health and prevent misuse of digital platforms, and will continue to take timely action in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.”

Meanwhile, the local drug manufacturers have warned that Pakistani market could see uptick in the sales of smuggled and counterfeited medicines, as authorities concerned have not notified price-tagging for new and advanced medications including for cancer, heart and blood pressure over the past one year.

As per the manufacturers, they have applied to the government to set retail prices for around 80 to 90 medicines over the last one year.

DRAP and a concerned pricing committee have already approved prices for introduction of the new medicines. However, the highest authority in the country, the Federal Cabinet that is headed by Prime Minister of Pakistan, is yet to give its final approval that is prolonging for quite a long period.