The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has started enforcement action against online platforms involved in the promotion and unlawful sale of medicines.
According to PTA sources, notices have been issued to three websites found engaged in the illegal marketing and distribution of drugs online. Following the action, some platforms have already removed related content advertising or selling medicines.
Officials said that any websites failing to comply with directives and continuing such activities will be blocked in the future. PTA is actively monitoring digital platforms to curb the spread of illegal pharmaceutical sales.
In parallel, the authority has also instructed social media companies and other online service providers to take down content linked to the unauthorized sale of medicines. Sources added that nearly 90 percent of companies approached have already complied and removed such material.
Earlier, the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) had urged PTA to take action against websites involved in selling unregistered and smuggled medicines online, warning that such practices pose serious risks to public health.
DRAP has further declared the online sale of medicines related to sexual health, weight management, and mental health as unlawful. The regulator has warned of strict penalties, confiscation of products, and legal proceedings against violators. The ongoing crackdown aims to protect public health by eliminating unsafe and unapproved medicines from online marketplaces.
