Illicit sale of controlled drugs at community pharmacy/medical stores of Punjab, Pakistan: A road to demolition of public health

Sale of controlled drugs without prescription is a burning issue in developing countries like Pakistan. Illicit sale practices lead towards drug abuse and misuse among youngsters and negatively impact the health of youth and economy of any country. Present study aims to highlight the illicit sale practices at community pharmacies/drug stores of Punjab, Pakistan. Study was conducted at community pharmacies/drug stores (n = 200) of Punjab, Pakistan. Sales men at pharmacies/drugs stores were interviewed and then their statements were cross verified by sending fake customers at their community pharmacies to check the extent of illicit sale practices by them. Gathered data was analyzed using SPPS-22. Out of 200 pharmacies, pharmacists were physically present at 5% of pharmacies (n = 200), rest of the 95% pharmacies (n = 190) were being run by non-qualified persons and were found to be engaged in illicit sale practices. Controlled drugs were being provided to customers without prescription, which is a dilemma and need to be addressed for effective policy making. Physical presence of pharmacists at community pharmacies/drug stores is necessary to overcome the illicit sale practices. Effective policy must be developed and implemented by Governmental Authorities to prevent the youth from hazards associated with drug abuse and misuse.