SPURIOUS syrup is being sold at medical stores in Lahore as cough remedy. People are dying by taking the poisonous cough syrup. There is no check on the sale of spurious drugs in the country. This is the kind of governance that we are living with.

Apparently, the health department and drug inspectors are connivingly involved with merchants of death. Where is accountability?

Welfare of the people is not included in the government agenda. The media, religious leaders and social workers can play a crucial role against the menace of the trade of poison. Intelligence agencies should also play their part in this jihad.

ASGHAR MAHMOOD
Islamabad

Drug abuse  

OVER-the-counter drugs are products that are available at supermarkets, drugstores and may be sold directly to a consumer without a prescription from a healthcare professional.

Most commonly used and abused such drugs include analgesics/antipyretics (Paracetamol) and cough, cold and flu syrups which contain dextromethorphan. Paracetamol is easily available at small shops and even children are familiar with the tablet. Its misuse/abuse causes hepatotoxicity or damage to liver and it sold or used just like a biscuits.

Cough syrups contain dextromethorphan and they can produce ‘high’ feelings and can be extremely dangerous in excessive amounts.

Many others which cause serious side effects are sold as over-the-counter drugs.

I request the authorities concerned to take notice of the issue.

DR SIDRA SARWAR
Lahore