Painkillers, antibiotics, and kidney disease: Why has drug regulator issued a fresh warning?
India's drug regulator, the CDSCO, has issued a warning against the indiscriminate use of NSAIDs and antibiotics due to risks of chronic kidney disease. The circular emphasizes that these drugs should only be used under medical supervision and with a valid prescription.
Why it matters
Public health awareness regarding the misuse of common medications is critical to preventing long-term renal complications.
The story so far: The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has warned against the indiscriminate, repeated, or prolonged use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and antibiotics, linking inappropriate use to avoidable renal complications and chronic kidney disease (CKD).
In its September 21 circular, it also reminded doctors, pharmacists, hospitals, and the public that these medicines are subject to prescription and other regulatory safeguards.
The CDSCO circular is, in significant part, a reminder that existing rules already require medical supervision for these medicines and doesn’t amount to any new ban on painkillers or antibiotics.
Most NSAIDs are classified under Schedule H of the Drugs Rules, 1945. Most antibiotics are under Schedule H1. These medicines are therefore not meant to be sold at retail without a prescription from a Registered Medical Practitioner.
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