Key Takeaways
- The Pakistan Paediatric Association has requested the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan to exempt 10cc syringes.
- A ban on these syringes could disrupt neonatal and paediatric care, according to doctors.
- The PPA warns that a blanket ban may lead to immediate problems in hospitals.
Doctors from the Pakistan Paediatric Association (PPA) have urged the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) to reconsider its decision to ban 10cc conventional syringes, arguing that such a move could severely impact neonatal and paediatric care in the country.
In a letter addressed to DRAP’s chief executive officer, Dr Muhammad Khalid Shafi, representing PPA, highlighted the critical role of these syringes in medical practices. He emphasized that 10cc syringes are essential for accurate dilution and administration of intravenous medicines, enteral feeding in neonatal intensive care units, and delivering oral liquid medicines and rehydration solutions to infants.
Dr Shafi pointed out that the health system is already grappling with a significant rise in paediatric HIV cases linked to unsafe medical practices, including the alleged reuse of contaminated syringes. He stressed that regulatory actions must be evidence-based and should not hinder essential clinical work.
The DRAP has already implemented a complete ban on conventional 1cc non-insulin disposable syringes from December 31, 2026, and will impose a similar ban on the retail and market sale of conventional 10cc disposable syringes starting January 1, 2027. However, Dr Shafi argued that a blanket ban could create immediate problems in hospitals and clinics, affecting daily life-saving procedures.
To address these concerns, the PPA has called for targeted exclusion of 10cc syringes until safer and standardised alternatives are fully reviewed and adopted. The association also requested DRAP to convene an expert advisory panel, including paediatric infectious disease specialists and association representatives, to review syringe reuse risks and develop evidence-based infection control guidelines.
Dr Shafi stated in his letter: 'The 10cc syringe remains a critical tool in paediatric and neonatal care. A blanket ban could create immediate problems in hospitals and clinics, affecting daily life-saving procedures.'
The PPA’s request underscores the need for evidence-based regulatory actions that balance patient safety with clinical necessity. The DRAP is yet to respond to this appeal.
'The 10cc syringe remains a critical tool in paediatric and neonatal care.'
Dr Muhammad Khalid Shafi, Representative, Pakistan Paediatric Association
