Judiciary Investigates Health Ministers Since 2018 Over Non-Compliant Medicines

Lebanon’s judiciary is expanding its investigation into biosimilar medicines that entered the market before laboratory testing was completed, following exemptions and approvals issued by the Ministry of Health.

The case began with a raid on a warehouse in Galerie Semaan, where authorities seized expired medicines and others lacking registration documents. Some products were reportedly found to be counterfeit.

Prosecutors have requested records of medicines imported since 2018, along with health ministers’ decisions, technical approvals and test results, to determine who allowed the products into the country.

The case raises concerns about oversight of medicines used to treat serious illnesses, including cancer and immune disorders. The investigation must establish why exemptions were granted, verify the safety of medicines on the market and hold anyone found responsible for violations accountable.