DRAP’s Rapid Alert–Unregistered Antiseptic Chloroxylenol Liquid Brand
Rapid Alert – Unregistered Antiseptic Product “Zetol (Chloroxylenol) Germ Protection Liquid”
DRAP Alert No.: I/S/02-26-04
Action Date: 18 February 2026
Target Audience
Regulatory Field Force of the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) and Provincial Drug Control Departments
Healthcare professionals
Pharmacies and medical stores
Problem Statement
The Drug Testing Laboratory, Punjab has reported that samples of the product listed below are unregistered and have been declared substandard and misbranded under the Drugs Act, 1976 and the Drugs (Labeling & Packing) Rules, 1986.
The product is being marketed and sold in Pakistan without prior registration or enlistment with DRAP.
Brand Information of Chloroxylenol liquid:
Product Name: Zetol (Chloroxylenol) Germ Protection Liquid
Active Ingredient: Chloroxylenol
Pack Sizes: 100 ml and 1 Liter
Manufacturer: UNCUS BROTHERS
Manufacturer Address: 23 KM Multan Road, Lahore
Label Claim: “Effective Protection against Germs that cause Infection”
Risk Statement
The use of the unregistered antiseptic product “Zetol (Chloroxylenol) Germ Protection Liquid” presents potential public health risks, as it has not been assessed or approved by DRAP for quality, safety, or efficacy.
Although the product contains the active antiseptic ingredient chloroxylenol, it is being promoted with infection-prevention claims without regulatory authorization.
Additionally, its packaging and overall presentation closely resemble a registered antiseptic brand (Dettol), which may confuse consumers and lead to unintended or inappropriate use of an unregulated product.
Continued distribution and use may result in:
Exposure to substandard or contaminated formulations
Misleading therapeutic claims
Consumer deception and confusion
Possible adverse skin reactions or ineffective infection control
Actions Taken
The Regulatory Field Force has been instructed to conduct surveillance and seize the above-mentioned unregistered product.
Pharmacists, chemists, distributors, and healthcare professionals must urgently inspect their stocks. Details of suppliers of such products should be reported to the Regulatory Field Force (DRAP and Provincial Drug Control Departments) to ensure removal from circulation.
Distributors and pharmacies are advised to be vigilant and report any suspected batch of the product(s) in the supply chain to the DRAP using the online form, or by Email at gsms@dra.gov.pk.
Guidance for Healthcare Professionals
Any adverse events or quality concerns linked to these medicines should be reported to the National or Provincial Pharmacovigilance Centres via the Adverse Event Reporting Form or through the official online portal.
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Guidance for Consumers
Consumers must avoid this product. If anyone experiences health problems after using them, they should immediately consult a healthcare provider and report the incident to DRAP / the National Pharmacovigilance Centre.
Always purchase therapeutic goods only from licensed pharmacies or authorized outlets. Carefully check the authenticity and condition of products, and consult a pharmacist or healthcare professional in case of doubt.
References
Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan. (2026, February 18). 04. Rapid Alert – “Zetol” unregistered antiseptic product. https://www.dra.gov.pk/safety_info/product_recalls/recall_alerts/04-rapid-alert-zetol-unregistered-antiseptic-product/
Disclaimer
This content is shared solely for educational and public awareness purposes and is based on publicly available DRAP safety alerts and recall notices. It does not represent an official DRAP communication, medical advice, or regulatory directive. Readers consult qualified healthcare professionals before making any medical or regulatory decisions.
