Chemists, wholesalers may need govt nod to advertise prescription drugs
The Indian Health Ministry has proposed a new rule requiring chemists and drug distributors to obtain government approval before advertising prescription medicines. This move aims to close a regulatory loophole and prevent the unauthorized promotion of potent drugs like antibiotics and psychotropics.
Why it matters
It strengthens oversight of the pharmaceutical supply chain to curb self-medication and ensure public safety regarding high-risk prescription drugs.
NEW DELHI: Chemists, wholesalers and drug distributors may soon have to seek Centre's approval before advertising certain prescription medicines, with health ministry proposing to extend existing curbs on advertisements of Schedule H, H1 and X drugs to those involved in their sale and distribution.The proposal assumes significance as regulators have raised concerns over promotion of potent prescription medicines, including antibiotics, hormonal preparations, psychotropic drugs, anti-cancer medicines, narcotic drugs and life-saving injectables.The ministry has now proposed inserting a new sub-rule under Rule 65 of Drugs…
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