The Pakistan Paediatric Association (PPA) has urged the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) to exclude conventional 10cc disposable syringes from its upcoming restrictions, warning that the measure could disrupt critical neonatal and paediatric healthcare services across the country.
In a formal letter addressed to DRAP Chief Executive Officer, PPA representative Dr. Muhammad Khalid Shafi said efforts to improve injection safety should be based on scientific evidence while ensuring that essential medical procedures are not compromised.
The association acknowledged the importance of preventing unsafe injection practices, particularly as Pakistan continues to face an increase in paediatric HIV infections linked to the alleged reuse of contaminated syringes. However, it argued that banning all conventional 10cc syringes could create unintended challenges for hospitals and healthcare providers.
Under DRAP’s current policy, conventional 1cc non-insulin disposable syringes will be completely banned from December 31, 2026. In addition, the sale and distribution of conventional 10cc disposable syringes will no longer be allowed from January 1, 2027, as part of broader efforts to strengthen infection control and improve patient safety.
The PPA said the 10cc syringe remains an essential medical device in neonatal intensive care units, children’s hospitals, and paediatric wards. Physicians regularly rely on it to accurately dilute intravenous medicines, administer treatments, provide enteral feeding to newborns, and deliver oral medications and rehydration solutions to infants.
According to the association, removing the device without introducing clinically validated alternatives could affect routine patient care and complicate life-saving medical procedures performed every day in healthcare facilities.
The PPA has asked DRAP to grant a targeted exemption for conventional 10cc syringes until suitable replacement products have been fully evaluated, approved, and made widely available across Pakistan’s healthcare system.
The association also recommended establishing an expert advisory panel comprising paediatricians, infectious disease specialists, public health experts, and representatives from the PPA. The panel would review the risks associated with syringe reuse and develop evidence-based infection prevention guidelines that protect patients while maintaining uninterrupted access to essential medical equipment.
Healthcare experts say strengthening infection control requires a balanced approach that combines effective regulation, proper disposal systems, public awareness, healthcare worker training, and access to safe medical devices. They believe such measures can help reduce the spread of blood-borne diseases without disrupting critical healthcare services.
DRAP has not yet publicly responded to the PPA’s request. The authority is expected to continue consultations with medical stakeholders before the new regulations take full effect.
