Punjab government, on September 24, implemented a two-week ban on the sale and usage of a locally manufactured injection, suspected of causing severe vision loss in numerous patients across the province.
The ban will remain in effect until comprehensive quality check results are obtained.
The decision came following an alarming situation where diabetic patients in Lahore, Kasur, and Jhang districts reportedly suffered vision loss after receiving Avastin injections to address retinal damage.
Reports suggested that approximately 12 patients, including the brother of senior PPP leader Chaudhry Manzoor, and his friend, experienced severe infections resulting in the loss of eyesight.
To address this critical issue, the Punjab government formed a five-member committee to investigate the circumstances surrounding these unfortunate incidents. The committee, headed by Dr. Asad Aslam Khan from King Edward Medical University, included members such as Muhammad Sohail (Director General Drugs Control), Dr. Muhammad Moin (Mayo Hospital), Dr. Tayyaba (Lahore General Hospital), and Prof. Dr. Mohsin (Services Hospital).
In response to these grave concerns, Punjab’s caretaker Chief Minister, Mohsin Naqvi, took to social media to announce a crucial meeting with the health department and doctors to formulate an action plan.
The plan included immediate and stringent action against drug inspectors found responsible for allowing the availability of non-sterile injections while a pending inquiry is underway. Additionally, the government pledged to provide free treatment to all affected patients and established a high-powered inquiry team for a swift and transparent investigation.
The police have been instructed to ensure the arrests of those responsible,” the CM added.
Injections recalled from market
Caretaker Health Minister Dr. Nadeem Jan revealed that the entire batch of the injection in question has been recalled from the market the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (Drap), and instructions have been issued to halt sales until the situation is clarified. Two individuals, Naveed and Hafiz Bilal, have had FIRs registered against them, and authorities are actively pursuing their arrest.
He assured the nation that the matter would be investigated transparently, and the findings would be shared with the public.
Furthermore, Punjab Minister for Primary and Secondary Healthcare, Dr. Jamal Nasir, pointed out the exorbitant profit margins associated with this injection as he emphasized that it came in a 100mg dose, whereas only a 1.2mg dose was required for ocular treatment.
It is worth noting that this issue extends beyond Lahore and Kasur, as reports have surfaced from Multan and Sadiqabad as well. The committee formed by the Punjab government is diligently investigating whether this problem stems from a sterilization issue or if there are broader concerns with the entire batch. They are also examining the licensing process for importing the injection, the distribution process, and the qualifications of the doctors administering the injections.
While the exact number of affected patients is still uncertain, it is estimated to be between 14 to 20 individuals. Authorities are conducting individual interviews to ascertain the full extent of this distressing situation.