The Punjab government has banned the use of the Ceftriaxone injection in hospitals after two patients at Lahore’s Mayo Hospital allegedly died due to a severe reaction to the drug.
Punjab Health Secretary Azmat Mahmood confirmed the deaths and formed a committee to investigate the matter. He also ordered hospitals across the province to stop using the injection immediately.
Officials at Jinnah Hospital stated they had also received a batch of the injection from the Punjab Health Department. However, in light of the recent deaths, they have decided to return the stock as a precaution.
Reports indicate that the injection was set to expire in May 2026 and was procured by the Director General (DG) of Health Punjab, not directly by Mayo Hospital. Meanwhile, 18 other patients in Mayo Hospital’s Chest Surgery Ward have reportedly suffered complications after receiving the same injection.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has expressed concern over the incident and directed health officials to submit a detailed report. She has also ordered strict action against those found responsible.
