How to Verify Halal Pharmaceutical Products?

Ever found yourself lost in the pharmacy aisle, unsure which medicines are halal? You are not alone.

Since 2013, registered halal pharmaceutical products such as OTC (Over-The-Counter), herbal, and traditional remedies can carry a halal logo. Only logos issued and recognised by Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) are valid.

Recognising the importance of halal medicine, JAKIM also introduced the world’s first halal certification for prescription (Ethical) medicines in 2017. This means you can now ask your doctor whether your prescribed medication is halal and they will consider your needs when making recommendations.

Unlike OTC products, ethical products can only be prescribed by a doctor. A patient has the right to ask about the medication prescribed to him/her, including if the prescribed medication is halal. The healthcare practitioners will prescribe what is best for their patient and consider their Muslim patient’s dietary requirements.