Islamabad: (RightNow) A two-year delay in revising the prices of 105 essential medicines in Pakistan has led to a shortage. According to pharmaceutical industry sources, proposals for price revisions are awaiting government approval. This delay has made it difficult for companies to continue production.

These medicines are categorized under ‘hardship category.’ Sources indicate a shortage of medicines for treating cancer and heart diseases. These drugs are unavailable in hospitals and medical stores nationwide.

PCDA Chairman Abdul Samad Badani has warned that prolonged shortages could increase the risk of counterfeit medicines. He stated that patients might resort to obtaining medicines from unreliable sources.

It is clear that governments have delayed decisions regarding the prices of hardship category medicines. The PCDA has urged the government for immediate approval.

It is noteworthy that the pricing policy aims to ensure the availability of essential medicines. Abdul Samad Badani has appealed to authorities to resolve the medicine shortage issue.