SRINAGAR: The Government of India has banned 156 fixed-dose combination (FDC) medicines, including some common antibiotics, painkillers, and multivitamins. This decision was made due to concerns about the safety and usefulness of these medicines. The ban, which started in August 2024, aims to protect public health by addressing the risks posed by these drugs, as some were found to have no valid medical purpose.
The Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers explained that the ban was enacted under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act of 1940. This law allows the government to control or stop the production and sale of any drug that might harm people or animals. When there are concerns about certain drugs, expert committees, like the Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB), review them and suggest actions.
The ban came after an expert committee led by Professor C.K. Kokate evaluated the safety and effectiveness of several FDCs. The committee found that many FDCs were irrational or made without proper licenses, leading to their ban.
The government also stressed that making, selling, or distributing banned FDCs is illegal, and state licensing authorities can take legal action against those who break the law. The list of banned FDCs is available on the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) website.
These steps are part of the government’s ongoing efforts to ensure that only safe and effective medicines are available to the public and to prevent the dangers associated with irrational drug combinations.
