The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) has decided to shift the quota allocation system for the raw material of controlled medicines, including sedatives and painkillers, to an online platform next month, sources told ProPakistani.
DRAP has completed the development of an online Controlled Drugs Quota Allocation System after consultations with all stakeholders.
The decision was taken with the input of the Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association, the Pakistan Bar, pharmaceutical companies, and the Anti-Narcotics Force.
Under the new system, pharmaceutical companies will receive their quota for controlled drugs raw material for 2026 through the online portal.
Companies will be required to submit electronic applications for quota allocation, while hard copy applications will no longer be accepted from January 1.
Sources said all applications for controlled drugs quotas will be submitted through the e-app system, and quota allocation certificates will also be issued online. Training of DRAP staff on the new system has already been completed.
Controlled drugs raw material is used in the manufacturing of sedatives, narcotic painkillers, medicines for neurological and psychiatric disorders, anesthesia drugs, and cough syrups. The sale of such medicines without a doctor’s prescription is banned in Pakistan.
More than 60 pharmaceutical companies in the country are currently involved in the manufacturing of controlled medicines. As part of the new process, companies will also be required to submit a three-year record of their controlled drugs raw material usage.
Sources added that the quota for controlled drugs raw material is jointly issued by the ministries of health and interior, and the online system is expected to improve oversight and reduce misuse.
