01
A pack fails verification
The serial at drugtrace.dra.gov.pk returns a different product or batch, or 'not found' on a serialised pack.
Official contacts, explained
DRAP helpline number and how to make a complaint that gets results
If you suspect a fake, substandard or dangerous medicine, the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan wants to hear about it. Here is the number, the online alternatives and exactly what to say so your report can be acted on.
Table of contents9 sections
Quick answer
The DRAP helpline number is 0800-03727 (toll-free, office hours, Monday–Friday). You can also complain online at dra.gov.pk/complaints. Before calling, have the product name, batch number, expiry, where and when you bought it, and photos of the pack. Keep the medicine and receipt as evidence. Our report page has a checklist.
- Toll-free helpline
- 0800-03727
- Office hours
- Mon–Fri
- 24/7 complaint form
- Online
- No charge to report
- Free
When to contact DRAP
Six situations where your call genuinely helps
DRAP's inspectors can't be everywhere. Many rapid alerts begin with a report from a patient, doctor or pharmacist. These are the reports that matter most.
02
A batch matches an alert
You still hold stock of a batch DRAP has declared spurious. Report where you bought it so inspectors can trace supply.
03
The pack looks wrong
Blurred print, spelling mistakes, broken seals, strip and carton batches that don't match. Use the pack checklist first.
04
Unexpected effects
The medicine doesn't work, or causes unusual side effects. Also see a doctor; see what to do if you took fake medicine.
05
Unlicensed sellers
Medicines sold by social-media sellers, street vendors or shops without a pharmacist or drug sale licence.
06
Overpricing & shortages
DRAP also handles complaints about medicines sold above the notified price or deliberately withheld.
Step by step
How to report a medicine to DRAP, step by step
- 1
Keep the evidence
Don't throw the medicine away. Keep the carton, strips, leaflet and receipt together in a bag.
- 2
Collect the details
Product name, strength, batch (B.No), expiry, registration number, pharmacy name and address, purchase date. See reading batch and expiry.
- 3
Photograph the pack
Clear photos of every side, the batch area, any 2D code and the tablets. These make an online complaint far stronger.
- 4
Call or file online
Call 0800-03727 during office hours, or submit the online complaint form. Note any reference number you're given.
What to say when you call
Helpline staff handle many calls, so a clear, structured report gets action faster. Start with the product and batch, then explain what made you suspicious and where you bought it.
- “I want to report a suspected fake/substandard medicine.”
- Product name, strength and batch number, read slowly, letter by letter.
- What's wrong: failed verification, matching alert, pack defects or side effects.
- Where and when you bought it, and whether you have the receipt.
- Your contact number for follow-up, and ask for a reference number.
What happens after you report
DRAP or the relevant provincial drug inspectorate may contact you to collect the sample. Suspect products are sent to a drug testing laboratory. If the lab finds the product spurious or substandard, DRAP can issue a rapid alert, order a recall and pursue action against the seller or manufacturer under the Drugs Act 1976 and the DRAP Act 2012.
Investigations take time, and you may not hear an outcome directly. Watch our alerts list: many entries there began as reports from the public.
Provincial drug inspectors and other channels
Retail pharmacies and drug sale licences are regulated by provincial health departments, whose drug inspectors can inspect and seal shops. For a problem with a particular pharmacy, a complaint to your provincial health department or district drug inspector can be quicker. See how to check a pharmacy licence.
If someone is seriously unwell, don't wait for a regulator: go to the nearest emergency department and take the medicine pack with you.
Which channel should you use?
Pick the fastest route for your situation. You can use more than one.
| Situation | Best channel | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Suspected fake or failed verification | DRAP helpline 0800-03727 or online complaint | National regulator; can issue alerts and recalls |
| Problem with a specific pharmacy | Provincial drug inspector / health department | Licenses and inspects retail outlets |
| Someone is unwell | Doctor or emergency department first | Health comes before reporting |
| Batch already in an alert | Return to pharmacy + report | Removes stock; helps trace supply |
| Unsure if it's fake | Verify first | Batch, pack and code checks in minutes |
Important
Beware of fake 'DRAP' numbers
Scammers post fake helpline numbers on social media and ask for payment or bank details to 'verify' medicines. DRAP never charges to take a complaint. Use 0800-03727 or the form on dra.gov.pk only.
Frequently asked questions
Direct answers about DRAP helpline number.
What is the DRAP helpline number?
DRAP's toll-free helpline is 0800-03727, available during office hours, Monday to Friday.
Can I complain to DRAP online?
Yes. Use the complaint form on the official dra.gov.pk website. Attach photos of the pack and receipt if you can. See also: Report a fake medicine.
Is calling the DRAP helpline free?
Yes, 0800 numbers are toll-free in Pakistan. See also: Report a fake medicine.
Will DRAP keep my identity private?
Complaints are handled by the regulator; you can ask how your details will be used when you report.
Should I return the fake medicine to the pharmacy?
Keep it until DRAP or an inspector tells you otherwise, since it is evidence. For recalled batches, returning it to the pharmacy is usually correct.
Can I report a medicine I bought online?
Yes. Include the website or social-media seller, order details and payment receipt. See buying medicine safely online.
Sources & references
- DRAP: Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (official site)
- DRAP online complaints
- DRAP product recall and rapid alerts
- WHO: Substandard and falsified medical products (fact sheet)
Updated 11 November 2026. DrugTrace.pk is independent and not affiliated with DRAP.
Topic hub
Reporting & Patient Help
What to do, who to call and how to report a fake medicine or side effect.
- Report a fake medicine ★
- DRAP helpline 0800-03727 (this page)
- How to report fake medicine
- Report side effects
- Took fake medicine?
- Drug Trace FAQ
- Glossary of terms
Related topics
Related guides
Taking actionHow to Report a Fake or Substandard Medicine in Pakistan
Exactly who to contact, what evidence to keep, and what happens after you report to DRAP.
4 min read
Taking actionTook a Fake or Expired Medicine? What to Do Now
Calm, step-by-step guidance on symptoms to watch, when to see a doctor, how to replace your treatment and how to report the product.
6 min read
Taking actionFake & Substandard Medicine Alerts in Pakistan: 2026 Roundup
A plain-language roundup of notable DRAP rapid alerts published in 2026: what was found, which batches, and what to do if you have them.
6 min read
More verification resources
Drug Track and Trace Portal →drugtrace.dra.gov.pk →Check Batch Number Online →Medicine QR Code Scanner →Original Medicine Check App →GTIN Number Check →Medicine Recall Pakistan →Pharmacy License Check →Counterfeit Drugs in Pakistan →Medicine Storage Temperature →Drug Testing Laboratory Pakistan →How to Read a Medicine Label →Report Side Effects →Smuggled Medicines Pakistan →Mehfooz Dawa →Mehfooz Dawa Check →Dawa Check →