Sri Lanka’s Health Ministry said 93 types of medicines used in government hospitals have failed quality assurance tests so far this year, prompting withdrawals and suspensions amid growing concern over patient safety.
The Medical Supplies Division said the largest share of substandard medicines, around 42 items, had originated from India.
The remaining failed samples included 25 locally manufactured drugs, as well as products imported from China, Pakistan, Japan and Bangladesh.
Health officials said immediate action was taken to withdraw, temporarily suspend or fully halt the use of several batches identified as failing to meet required standards.
Significant concern surrounds the anti-vomiting drug Ondansetron, following the deaths of two patients who had received the injection.
The Ministry said scientific investigations are underway to determine whether the fatalities were caused by complications linked to the drug.
Health Ministry records show that drug quality failures are not new.
Since 2017, authorities have recorded about 600 instances of medicines failing quality checks nationwide.
The highest number was reported in 2019, with 96 cases, while 83 incidents were recorded in 2024.
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