Key Takeaways
- Federal Minister Mustafa Kamal announced the implementation of 2D barcode system to eliminate fake medicines.
- Pharmaceutical companies must now print 2D barcodes and serial numbers on their packaging.
- Citizens can verify medicine authenticity through a mobile app.
Federal Minister for National Health Services and Regulations, Mustafa Kamal, has announced the implementation of a 2D barcode system to combat the issue of fake medicines in Pakistan. The minister presided over a meeting on Thursday to discuss the rollout of this system, which is aimed at ensuring the authenticity of medicines across the country.
According to Kamal, the 2D barcode system will be mandatory for all local and multinational pharmaceutical companies, with the requirement to print 2D barcodes and serial numbers on their packaging. This includes veterinary and poultry medicines, which will also be covered under the new system.
The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) has completed the necessary training for representatives of pharmaceutical companies and other stakeholders. The ministry has been working on the implementation of 2D barcodes on medicines for the past year and a half, with the requirement to apply two 2D barcodes on every medicine manufactured after October 9.
Kamal stated that imported medicines will also not be allowed to be sold in the country without a 2D barcode. The minister emphasized the government's commitment to eradicating counterfeit medicines, highlighting the importance of this system in protecting public health.
The DRAP’s chief executive officer briefed the participants on the progress made in training and the upcoming implementation. The CEO stated that common citizens will be able to verify the authenticity of medicines through a mobile app, which will also provide information on the price and expiry date of the medicines.
Pharmacies, medical stores, and general citizens will be able to use the mobile app to check the authenticity of medicines. The app will allow users to scan the 2D barcode on the packaging to verify if the medicine is genuine or fake. This will help in preventing the sale and consumption of counterfeit medicines, which can pose significant health risks.
The minister also mentioned that the government is firm in implementing the 2D barcode trials, which are expected to significantly reduce the prevalence of fake medicines in the country. The system is designed to enhance transparency and traceability in the pharmaceutical supply chain, ensuring that only genuine medicines reach the consumers.
Mustafa Kamal highlighted the importance of this system in safeguarding public health and preventing the spread of counterfeit medicines. He emphasized that the government is committed to the successful implementation of the 2D barcode system, which will play a crucial role in protecting the health and well-being of the Pakistani population.
