ISLAMABAD: The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan warned patients and healthcare providers about five batches of counterfeit cancer medicines, noting that their contents and sterility remain unknown.
DRAP issued the rapid alert after the World Health Organisation reported falsified Darzalex injections and Jakavi tablets in several regions. Janssen and Novartis Pharma AG confirmed that the affected batch numbers were not genuine.
The counterfeit Darzalex products include 400mg/20ml injections carrying batch number STV1K01 and 100mg/5ml injections marked MYS7381. Authorities detected the products in the Maldives and Mexico after unauthorised suppliers distributed them.
Read:DRAP Syringe Alert Bans 17 Substandard Batches
Darzalex, which contains daratumumab, is used to treat multiple myeloma and amyloid light-chain amyloidosis. DRAP said laboratory testing had not established the identity, ingredients, quality or sterility of the counterfeit products.
The WHO observed visible particles in products carrying batch number STV1K01. DRAP warned that falsified injections could cause treatment failure, infections, disease progression and potentially life-threatening complications.
The falsified Jakavi products include 20mg tablets bearing batch number AVT50 and 15mg tablets marked FNR06 or SGL04. Authorities detected them in Iran, Türkiye and Russia after sales through online platforms and, in one case, a pharmacy.
DRAP directed its Regulatory Field Force and provincial drug control departments to increase market surveillance and to confiscate affected products. Patients should not use medicines carrying the listed batch numbers and should seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional.
