Islamabad’s Health Department has reiterated that pharmacies cannot sell pregabalin-containing medicines without a valid prescription, directing licensed pharmacies and pharmacists to strictly follow the regulatory requirements.
The Pharmacy Services and Drug Control section issued the reminder through an alert for the public and pharmacists, stating that the restriction remains in force under directions issued on July 10, 2026.
The department said all licensed pharmacies and pharmacists must dispense medicines containing pregabalin only against valid prescriptions from qualified medical practitioners.
The reminder aims to strengthen compliance with medicine-sale regulations and promote the safe use of prescription drugs in the federal capital.
Pharmacies Directed to Follow Prescription Rules
Under the directive, licensed pharmacies and pharmacists are required to verify prescriptions before dispensing pregabalin-containing medicines.
The department stressed that compliance is necessary to protect public health and ensure that prescription medicines are used under appropriate medical supervision.
The alert reiterates an existing restriction rather than announcing a new ban. It does not specify additional penalties or a new enforcement deadline in the information released.
Pharmacy operators are therefore expected to continue following the applicable drug-sale rules and ensure that medicines subject to prescription requirements are not supplied without proper authorisation.
What Is Pregabalin Used For?
Pregabalin is a prescription medicine used to treat certain conditions, including nerve pain and some types of seizures. Depending on the patient’s condition, a healthcare professional may prescribe it as part of an individual treatment plan.
Like other prescription medicines, pregabalin should be used according to medical advice. Taking it without appropriate supervision may expose patients to avoidable risks, while its suitability and dosage depend on individual health circumstances.
The Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) publishes official medicine-safety information, including a safety alert concerning pregabalin, which discusses potential risks associated with its use during pregnancy.
Patients should consult their doctors before starting pregabalin or making changes to an existing treatment. Anyone already taking the medicine should seek medical advice before stopping it.
Public Advised to Consult Qualified Medical Practitioners
The Islamabad Health Department has urged members of the public to consult qualified medical practitioners before obtaining prescription medicines and to follow professional advice on their use.
The directive also highlights the responsibility of pharmacists to ensure medicines are dispensed in accordance with applicable regulations.
The department’s Pharmacy Services and Drug Control portal provides information about pharmacy licensing and regulatory services in Islamabad.
The renewed reminder forms part of efforts to promote responsible medicine dispensing and strengthen compliance with drug-sale requirements in the federal capital.
