The article discusses how the federal government's prolonged delay in approving price revisions for 105 essential medicines has led to severe shortages across Pakistan.

Over two years after the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (Drap) recommended price adjustments, the federal cabinet has yet to finalize the proposals.

This delay has made production of critical drugs like oral morphine, streptokinase injections, and chemotherapy medications financially unsustainable for manufacturers.As a result, many companies have scaled back or halted production, worsening the shortage.

The Pakistan Chemists and Druggists Association (PCDA) warns that this vacuum is creating opportunities for counterfeit and substandard medicines to enter the market, endangering patients, especially those needing life-saving treatments.

Industry representatives emphasize that timely price revisions are crucial to ensure the availability of essential drugs while preventing the proliferation of fake products.The Drap CEO confirmed the recommendations are pending cabinet approval, highlighting the need for urgent government action to address the crisis.