India Bans 156 Combination Drugs for Safety Reasons
The central government of India has banned 156 combination drugs that are commonly used as painkillers, multivitamins, and antibiotics for treating fever and cold, among other ailments. This decision was announced in a gazette notification dated August 21.
Why Were These Drugs Banned?
The government stated that the Fixed Dose Combination (FDC) of various enzymes and substances, such as Amylase, Protease, and Bromelain, poses risks to human health. Safer alternatives are available, making these drugs unnecessary. The Drugs Technical Advisory Board and an expert committee found these FDCs to be irrational and without therapeutic justification.
Immediate Effect
The ban on the manufacture, sale, and distribution of these drugs is effective immediately across the country. The list of banned drugs also includes those used for hair treatments, antiparasitic, skincare, and anti-allergic purposes.
Support from the Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance
Sudarshan Jain, Secretary General of the Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance (IPA), supports the government’s decision. He mentioned that the review process has been ongoing for many years and that this step is in the best interest of patients. Companies have been given the opportunity to provide data to support their products; those without supporting data will have to withdraw their products.
Doubts Revealed
Combination Drugs -: Combination drugs are medicines that have two or more active ingredients in one pill or syrup. They are used to treat multiple symptoms or conditions at the same time.
Drugs Technical Advisory Board -: The Drugs Technical Advisory Board is a group of experts in India that advises the government on the safety and effectiveness of medicines. They help make decisions about which drugs should be allowed or banned.
Irrational Drugs -: Irrational drugs are medicines that do not have a clear benefit or may cause more harm than good. They might be unnecessary or unsafe for patients.
Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance -: The Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance is a group of major pharmaceutical companies in India. They work together to ensure that medicines are safe and effective for people to use.
Anti-allergic -: Anti-allergic drugs are medicines that help reduce or prevent allergic reactions, like sneezing, itching, or rashes. They are used to treat allergies.
