Punjab authorities have identified eight commonly used medicines for conditions like diarrhea and stomach infections as substandard. These medicines include batches from major pharmaceutical companies.
According to local media reports, concerns were raised after a regulatory inspection conducted by the Chief Drug Controller, leading to the classification of these medicines as substandard.
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Pharmacies and medical stores across the region have been ordered to halt the sale of these medicines immediately. Additionally, drug inspectors have been instructed to confiscate existing stock to prevent further distribution.
Among the flagged medicines is Flaygel, an antibiotic and antiprotozoal drug, which failed to meet quality standards. Tramadol, a widely used pain relief injection, was also found to be substandard. Metronidazole, an injection used to treat bacterial infections, was likewise deemed unsafe for use. The Chief Drug Controller emphasized the urgency of removing these drugs from circulation, instructing strict enforcement to protect public health.
This follows a similar incident last year when the Punjab Health Department banned nine syrups from four pharmaceutical companies after detecting harmful ethanol in them. These syrups, used to treat conditions such as allergies, coughs, and nausea, were manufactured by Alpharma, Zee Laboratories, Texcol Pharmaceuticals, and Virol Pharmaceuticals.
Authorities have advised the public to avoid using these syrups and report any adverse reactions to healthcare facilities.
