Pakistan essential medicine shortage crisis

Pakistan is facing a severe shortage of over 100 essential medicines, including life-saving drugs for cancer, heart disease, and other serious illnesses, due to prolonged delays by the federal government in approving revised drug prices. The Pakistan — Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) recommended price revisions for 105 hardship category medicines more than two years ago, citing soaring production costs from increased raw material prices, energy, transportation, and rupee depreciation. However, the proposals remain pending with the federal cabinet, leading pharmaceutical manufacturers to reduce or halt production. The shortage has affected medicines such as oral morphine, streptokinase, chemotherapy drugs, and vaccines. Industry representatives warn of increased counterfeit drug risks and urge immediate government action. Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal has assured a QR code-based verification system to combat counterfeits.