The federal government has stepped up scrutiny of Pakistan drug prices after seeking explanations from 37 pharmaceutical companies over substantial increases in the prices of deregulated medicines, according to officials and government sources.
The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) has issued show-cause notices to companies that raised the prices of certain medicines by more than 50%, while the Ministry of National Health Services is reviewing the responses before deciding on further action.
DRAP Issues Notices Over Price Hikes
According to government sources, the prices of some deregulated medicines increased by between 76.8% and 1,621%.
DRAP has issued show-cause notices to 37 national and multinational pharmaceutical companies, seeking explanations for price increases affecting 92 medicines.
Health Minister Confirms Action
Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal said he had directed the issuance of notices to companies that significantly increased medicine prices.
The notices require pharmaceutical companies to explain the reasons behind price increases exceeding 50%, officials said.
Companies Begin Responding
Ministry of Health sources said 12 companies have submitted responses regarding price increases on 35 medicines.
Two companies have requested additional time to respond, while 23 companies have yet to submit replies. Reminder notices have been issued to those firms.
Officials said the government will determine its next course of action after reviewing responses from all the companies involved.
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