The Brazilian Ministry of Health has identified over 400 medical records within the Popular Pharmacy Program that contained an atypical volume of prescriptions, with some doctors reportedly issuing more than 3,500 prescriptions in just six months. This figure starkly contrasts with the average of 120 prescriptions per doctor in the same timeframe, raising concerns about possible irregularities. Consequently, as a preventive measure, the ministry has suspended 94 accredited pharmacies and temporarily halted the use of these records in the program.

In total, a comprehensive analysis was conducted on 611,000 medical records from January to June 2025. The ministry's efforts are part of a broader strategy to enhance control and monitoring mechanisms aimed at curbing irregular practices within the popular pharmacy initiative. The cases flagged have been forwarded to relevant regulatory authorities, including the Federal Council of Medicine (CFM), the National Department of Audits for the Unified Health System (DenaSUS), and the Comptroller General of the Union (CGU) for further investigation.

The suspension of these pharmacies highlights the ministry's commitment to ensuring integrity within the public health system and protecting patients from potential malpractice. As investigations proceed, it underscores the importance of monitoring prescription practices to prevent fraudulent activities, ensuring that public health resources are utilized appropriately and efficiently.