New Govt App Lets You Check If Medicines Are Genuine and Verify Prices

The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) has launched a new mobile application called Mehfooz Dawa to help consumers verify the authenticity and correct pricing of medicines before purchasing. The app utilizes a 2D barcode system, enabling smartphone users to scan the barcode on medicine packaging and access information about the authorized product.

Dr. Shah, a spokesperson for the Ministry of National Health Services, informed that approximately 800 pharmaceutical companies and over 90,000 medicines are currently registered with DRAP. By scanning the barcode printed on medicine packs via their smartphones, consumers can confirm product details and compare the registered price.

The centralised Track and Trace System for medicines distributed throughout Pakistan became operational on October 9, 2026. This system not only assists consumers but also enables regulators to monitor the movement of medicines within the supply chain. In the event of complaints, safety concerns, or quality issues, authorities can more effectively identify and recall specific products.

The Mehfooz Dawa app operates through a smartphone. Users simply need to scan the 2D barcode on a medicine pack using the app, which subsequently displays information about the product and its price. This functionality allows buyers to verify whether the medicine matches DRAP’s registered data and whether the charged price is accurate.

Implementing the medicine barcode system in Pakistan has faced years of delays. The federal cabinet approved the initiative in 2017, but administrative obstacles hindered its full implementation for several years. Health Minister Mustafa Kamal later took action and directed authorities to launch the system. DRAP set October 1, 2026, as the deadline for introducing the barcode mechanism as part of its efforts to combat counterfeit and expired medicines, as well as illicit practices like black marketing.