Controversy Surrounds Sildenafil Syrup Advertising Campaign in Pakistan

Islamabad:The promotional campaign for Sildenafil syrup has sparked controversy, with healthcare professionals and the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) condemning the misleading advertisements by pharmaceutical companies. The syrup, which is registered for the treatment of pulmonary hypertension in children, has been wrongly promoted for male erectile dysfunction, causing significant concern.

According to a report published in an English daily, Sildenafil is globally recognized as a treatment for erectile dysfunction, but it has not been approved for this use in Pakistan. In Pakistan, it is only registered for treating pulmonary hypertension in children, but pharmaceutical companies have launched a controversial advertising campaign suggesting its use for male sexual health, which has become a point of contention.

The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) recently approved Sildenafil syrup for the treatment of severe pulmonary hypertension in children. However, the companies manufacturing the syrup have faced backlash for promoting its off-label use to treat male sexual dysfunction.

A senior DRAP official, speaking anonymously, expressed strong concerns over these advertising tactics, labeling them as “unethical marketing.” The official further emphasized that such promotions encourage the off-label use of the drug, which has not been approved for adult male erectile dysfunction in Pakistan.

The DRAP official also warned about the potential risks of misuse, explaining that the syrup could be sold without a prescription, leading to possible misuse by individuals seeking treatment for erectile dysfunction. There is a growing concern that adults may consume excessive amounts of the syrup in an attempt to achieve the desired effects, which could lead to serious health complications.

This controversy has raised questions about the ethical responsibility of pharmaceutical companies and the need for stricter regulations to prevent the unauthorized promotion and misuse of medical products. DRAP has urged the companies involved to cease the misleading advertising and comply with the established regulations.