Health experts have urged Pakistan’s drug regulator to review the 10cc syringe ban, warning that the restriction could affect the treatment of newborns and children, particularly in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), despite ongoing efforts to curb the spread of HIV.
The appeal was made by Professor Dr. Muhammad Khalid Shafi, Chairperson of the National Immunization Technical Advisory Group (NITAG), in an urgent letter to the Chief Executive Officer of the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP).
Concerns Over Pediatric And Neonatal Care
In the letter, Dr. Shafi said a complete ban on 10cc syringes could create serious challenges in treating pediatric and neonatal patients.
He noted that 10cc syringes are routinely used to administer precise doses of medicines and liquid nutrition to newborns, adding that there is currently no practical alternative in NICUs and pediatric wards.
Call For Targeted Regulations
The letter recommends replacing a blanket ban with evidence-based and targeted regulatory measures.
Dr. Shafi suggested allowing exemptions for needle-free 10cc syringes, which are commonly used for administering liquid medications to children and infants and are not intended for injections.
Proposal For Expert Consultation
The NITAG chairperson also called on DRAP to establish a committee of medical experts to review the policy and ensure that infection prevention measures do not disrupt essential healthcare services.
While stressing the importance of preventing HIV transmission, he emphasized that regulatory decisions should also protect uninterrupted access to critical medical equipment for newborn and pediatric care.
Also Read : Experimental Alzheimer’s Drug Shows Early Promise In Reducing Brain Damage
Today's E-Paper