Latest news with #AllIndiaOrganisationofChemistsandDruggists
Time of India
17-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Chemists' org warns against Centre's plan to expand OTC drug list
1 2 Shillong: The All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists has cautioned against the Centre's proposal to classify more medicines as over-the-counter (OTC) products, maintaining that this would have harmful effects on the health of the people. In a statement issued on Friday, the Meghalaya Healthcare Association , which is a unit of the AIOCD, cautioned the potentially dangerous consequences of this move and pointed out that medicines, even those used routinely, require expert supervision to avoid harmful effects. "Paracetamol is widely used as a pain reliever, but an overdose can cause serious liver and kidney damage," David Kharsati, president of the Association said in the statement and also highlighted the risks of diclofenac, a common anti-inflammatory drug available in potassium and sodium forms. "These two variants must be prescribed carefully, especially for patients with blood pressure issues. Interchanging them without proper guidance can worsen the condition," he said. He added while the govt may aim to simplify access, expanding the OTC list could disrupt the existing supply chain and lead to confusion among consumers. The AIOCD, which represents around 12.5 lakh chemists across India, also raised concerns about the growing financial strain on local pharmacies and cited the rise of online pharmacies and govt-supported schemes like Jan Aushadhi and Dawa India as major factors behind declining business margins.
Time of India
06-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Chemists urge govt to rethink over-the-counter (OTC) drug rules, want Covid-era law scrapped
AHMEDABAD: The All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists ( AIOCD ) and Federation of Gujarat State Chemists and Druggists Association (FGSCDA) have asked the central govt to consult them before finalising the list of over-the-counter (OTC) medicines that can be sold without a a letter to the Union Health Ministry, the two bodies demanded the withdrawal of a rule introduced during COVID-19 — GSR 220 (E) — which allowed home delivery of medicines. 'This law is being misused by online channels and companies. The doctor's prescription and pharmacist are being bypassed, due to which medicines are being sold indiscriminately through online portals,' the memorandum warn the move could lead to 'inappropriate, unnecessary and uncontrolled use of drugs,' the spread of 'fake and substandard medicines,' and a rise in antibiotic misuse with 'long-term threats to public health.'The groups, representing over 13 lakh chemists across India, welcomed the govt's decision to refer the issue to the Digital Technical Advisory Board (DTAB) but stressed the need to include retail chemists in any discussion, as they are key players in the country's medicine supply chain.
