Sale of addictive drugs : Health authorities lodge complaint against online shopping portals

ISLAMABAD: The federal health authorities have lodged a formal complaint with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), accusing one of Pakistan’s largest e-commerce platform of enabling the illegal sale of highly addictive and strictly controlled prescription drugs.

The complaint was filed by Sardar Shabbir Ahmed, Secretary of the Quality Control Board, Islamabad. It reveals that such medicines are being sold online like ordinary consumer goods. This is happening even as cancer patients and the terminally ill are denied access to lifesaving opioids such as morphine and fentanyl.

The complaint highlights that powerful benzodiazepines and pregabalin-based medicines—drugs not permitted for over-the-counter sale in Pakistan—are freely listed on the e-commerce platform. These are often sold at inflated prices and marketed with misleading claims, such as “for sleeping and depression.”

Health officials have labelled this practice not only illegal but also a direct threat to public safety. They warn that the unchecked sale of such substances could deepen Pakistan’s growing addiction crisis.

Among the flagged listings is Alprazolam 1mg, sold at Rs. 480 for a pack of 30 tablets. It is promoted for sleep and depression. Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine prescribed for anxiety and panic disorders, but it is known for its addictive nature and dangerous withdrawal symptoms when misused.

Another listing advertises Pregabalin 300mg for Rs. 999, with discounted offers. This is despite the fact that pregabalin is a controlled medicine worldwide due to its intoxicating effects and high risk of dependency. Similarly, Alprazolam 0.5mg is listed at Rs.1,099 for 30 tablets. Pregabalin 300mg is offered for Rs. 760 with the dangerously misleading claim of “no side effects.” In addition, Bromazepam 3mg is openly available, priced between Rs. 750 and Rs. 899.

The contradiction is stark. Terminally ill patients are denied access to basic opioids such as morphine for pain relief, while sedatives and psychotropic drugs are readily available online to anyone with an internet connection.

Following the complaint, provincial drug authorities—including those in Sindh—have directed their field forces to investigate the issue. Legal action against online sellers is also being considered. Experts have warned that unless decisive measures are taken, the abuse of such medicines will further burden Pakistan’s already fragile health system.

Adding to the crisis is the widespread advertising of prescription medicines and therapeutic goods. These ads appear across television, radio, billboards, and social media—despite clear prohibitions under the Drugs Act 1976 and the DRAP Act. Advertising controlled drugs without proper approval is illegal, yet companies continue to promote their products with apparent impunity.