KARACHI: A device meant to protect lives may now be putting them at risk. Across Pakistan, banned reusable syringes and counterfeit “auto-disable” syringes—designed to be used only once—are reportedly reappearing in markets, raising alarm among health experts and regulators alike.
What makes the situation particularly dangerous is deception. These syringes are being sold as safety-compliant, single-use products, yet investigations suggest many can be reused multiple times—creating a direct pathway for the spread of infectious diseases.
How a critical safety system is being undermined
Auto-disable syringes were introduced globally to prevent reuse and reduce the transmission of blood-borne infections. Their design ensures that once used, they cannot be operated again.
However, counterfeit versions now circulating in Pakistan appear to mimic these safety features only on the surface. In reality, they fail to disable after use, making them functionally identical to banned reusable syringes.
For patients, this means a simple injection—often perceived as routine—could carry unseen risks.
Evidence points to a widespread distribution network
Investigations have revealed that these syringes are not limited to isolated markets. Supplies have reportedly been traced across multiple cities, including Peshawar, Multan, and Jacobabad, indicating a well-established and active distribution chain.
Further concerns arise from reports that a significant portion of these products may be manufactured and supplied from Gadoon Amazai Industrial Estate in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, suggesting the issue extends beyond retail malpractice into organized production and supply systems.
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The role of unsafe medical practices
The risk is further amplified by unsafe practices in informal healthcare settings. Sources indicate that unqualified practitioners—commonly referred to as quacks—are reusing syringes for multiple patients, charging between Rs50 to Rs100 per injection.
This practice significantly increases the likelihood of transmitting infections such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and other blood-borne diseases, turning a low-cost medical service into a high-risk exposure.
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A growing public health concern
Health experts warn that the circulation of counterfeit safety syringes is not just a regulatory issue—it is a serious threat to national infection control systems.
Pakistan has long struggled with a high burden of injectable-related infections, and the re-emergence of reusable or fake syringes could reverse years of progress made in improving injection safety standards.
Regulatory response and the need for enforcement
The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) has acknowledged the issue and stated that strict action will be taken against those involved in the illegal sale and distribution of such syringes.
However, public health advocates stress that enforcement must go beyond statements. They are calling for:
- Immediate nationwide market surveillance
- Crackdown on illegal manufacturing and supply chains
- Strict penalties for violations
- Public awareness campaigns on injection safety
Without decisive and sustained action, experts warn that the situation could escalate into a larger health crisis.
Why this matters to every patient
For the general public, the issue is deeply personal. Every injection—whether for treatment, vaccination, or routine care—should be safe.
Patients are being advised to remain vigilant, ensure that new syringes are opened in front of them, and avoid treatment from unqualified practitioners.
A preventable crisis at a critical moment
At its core, this is not just a story about syringes—it is about trust in the healthcare system. The tools designed to protect patients must not become sources of harm.
With counterfeit products circulating and unsafe practices persisting, Pakistan stands at a critical juncture. The response taken now will determine whether this remains a contained issue—or evolves into a widespread public health emergency.
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