Islamabad Health Department Cracks Down on Pharmacists Holding Multiple Drug Sale Licences

The Pharmacy Services and Drug Control Wing of the Health Department for Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) has issued a formal advisory warning pharmacists against obtaining or holding multiple drug sale licences under a single professional registration, describing the practice as both illegal and professionally unacceptable.

According to the advisory, each pharmacist is permitted to hold and operate only one drug sale licence. The department has directed all licence applicants to make full disclosure, submit accurate information and strictly follow applicable laws and regulations during the application process.

Officials cautioned that any breach of these rules will result in appropriate legal and regulatory action. The wing also called on pharmacy professionals to maintain ethical standards, safeguard the reputation of the profession and ensure full compliance with the relevant regulatory framework.

The move is part of ongoing efforts by the ICT health authorities to strengthen oversight of the pharmaceutical retail sector and close loopholes that allow individuals to control multiple outlets through a single registration. Regulators view one-licence-per-registration as a way to improve accountability and ensure that licensed professionals remain directly responsible for the pharmacies they operate.

Pharmacists operating in the federal capital have been advised to review their existing licences and correct any discrepancies before enforcement action is taken. The advisory signals a stricter approach to licensing compliance in the coming period.

The department's directive reflects a broader push by health regulators to enforce transparency in drug sales and protect consumers from unregulated or improperly supervised pharmacy operations.