DRAP Has Not Banned Doctors from Writing Brand Names on Prescriptions

By Muhammad MubashirPublished On 13 May 2026

Claim: Social media posts claim that DRAP has barred doctors in Pakistan from prescribing medicines by brand name and has ordered them to write only generic names or chemical formulas.

Verdict: False

The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan, commonly known as DRAP, has not issued any directive banning doctors from writing brand names on prescriptions.

What is Being Claimed?

A video circulating on social media claims that doctors in Pakistan are no longer allowed to prescribe medicines by brand name.

According to the viral claim, doctors must only write the chemical formula or generic name of a medicine, while pharmacists would decide which brand to provide to patients.

The video also claims that doctors who continue writing brand names could face fines or legal action.

What is the Truth?

The claim is false.

DRAP officials have clarified that no such law, notification, or directive has been issued.

DRAP’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr Obaidullah Malik, confirmed that doctors’ medical practice does not fall under DRAP’s authority. He also said that there is currently no law that forces doctors to prescribe medicines only by generic name.

According to the clarification, medicines can be registered both by brand name and by formula, so doctors may prescribe medicines in either form.

Punjab Health Department’s Response

Punjab health department officials also confirmed that there is no existing legislation requiring doctors to prescribe only generic medicines.

Agha Ehtisham, Deputy Director Media to the Punjab Health Minister, also rejected the viral claim and said it has no basis.

Final Verdict

The viral claim is false.

DRAP has not banned doctors from writing brand names on prescriptions. No penalties or legal action have been announced against doctors for prescribing medicines by brand name.