Karachi pharmacies selling medicines at five-time higher prices, reveals Drap

Pharmacies and medical stores in Karachi have been found to be selling medicines at five-time higher rates than the maximum retail price (MRP) approved by the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (Drap).

This fleecing practice came to light during a crackdown launched against drug profiteers in the port city.

Drap teams raided different medical stores of DHA, Gulshan-i-Iqbal, Gulistan-i-Johar and other areas in the port city.

According to the Drap’s data, the MRP of Heparin Injection, used for decreasing clotting of blood, is Rs800 but it was being sold for Rs3,500.

Similarly, a pain killer Tramal Injection, antibiotic Augmentin DS Suspension and Hydryllin cough syrup were being sold at inflated rates than the MRP.

A pack of Tegral tablets, recommended for epilepsy, was being sold for Rs1,300-1,400 while its MRP was Rs260. Rivotril, used for treating fits in infants, children and adults, has MRP Rs800, but was being sold for Rs1,000.