Latest news with #AmitBhushanSharma
Mint
6 hours ago
- Health
- Mint
Govt warns some heart medicines can cause erectile dysfunction, psoriasis
Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) has issued an alert on widely-prescribed beta-blockers (heart medications), saying that these drugs can cause severe adverse reactions, including erectile dysfunction and psoriasis (a chronic skin condition). Beta-blockers, often prescribed by doctors to manage abnormal heart rhythms, prevent heart attacks, and treat migraines, are a cornerstone in cardiovascular care. However, a recent analysis of adverse drug reactions by the IPC revealed that combinations of beta-blockers such as Propranolol and Metoprolol are associated with psoriasis. Furthermore, combinations including Metoprolol, Propranolol, Atenolol, and Carvedilol have been linked to reversible erectile dysfunction. Healthcare professionals, patients/consumers are advised to closely monitor the possibility of the above ADRs associated with the use of above suspected drugs, the IPC said. "If such reactions are encountered, please report to the NCC-PvPI (National Coordination Centre - Pharmacovigilance Programme of India), IPC by filling of Suspected Adverse Drug Reactions Reporting Form/Medicines Side Effect Reporting Form for Consumer," the IPC said in a communication to hospitals and healthcare professionals. Mint has reviewed a copy of the communication. This alert from the IPC, which is an autonomous organisation under the health ministry that sets safety standards for drugs manufactured and sold in the country, follows earlier reports from the government raising alarms about these life-saving drugs. An adverse drug reaction (ADR) is defined as a harmful, unintended result from taking medication, which can occur from a single dose, prolonged use, or drug combinations. Queries sent to the health ministry regarding the alert remained unanswered till press time. India's beta-blocker market is substantial, currently valued at over $11 billion and projected to cross $15 billion by 2030. Given the widespread use of these medications, the IPC has advised healthcare professionals, patients, and consumers to "closely monitor the possibility of the adverse drug reactions associated with the use of suspected beta blockers drugs". The IPC plays a crucial role in monitoring adverse drug reactions across the Indian population, assisting the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) in making regulatory decisions to ensure safe use of medicines. Since March, the IPC has identified adverse reactions in connection with eight different drugs. Dr. Amit Bhushan Sharma, director & unit head, cardiology, Paras Health, Gurugram, said that the recent alert issued by the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission regarding adverse drug reactions linked to beta blockers highlight a serious concern. 'While these drugs are effective and often life-saving, their side effects can significantly affect a person's quality of life. Patients experiencing any unusual symptoms should report to their doctors and in most cases doctors can adjust the dosage or recommend alternative treatments. Monitoring, regular follow-ups, and clear communication with healthcare providers are essential to safely managing these medications and minimizing the risk of ADRs.'
Time of India
2 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
No, COVID vaccines aren't killing young adults; The real threat is being ignored: Experts
New Delhi : Sudden deaths among young adults are being wrongly blamed on vaccines. Extensive data from ICMR and AIIMS confirms the real culprits: lifestyle, genetics, and undiagnosed heart conditions , inform medical experts. India's premier scientific institutions have firmly debunked the narrative linking COVID-19 vaccines to sudden cardiac deaths . Backed by research from ICMR, NCDC, and AIIMS, health experts are urging the public to move beyond vaccine blame and address the actual risk factors—undiagnosed cardiac issues, post-COVID complications, poor lifestyle habits, and genetic predispositions. 'The recent findings are timely and reassuring. Most sudden cardiac deaths occur due to pre-existing or lifestyle-related cardiac issues—not vaccines,' said Dr. Amit Bhushan Sharma, Director and Unit Head, Cardiologist, Paras Health, Gurugram. 'Vaccination is not the problem—neglected heart health is,' said Dr. Prabhat Ranjan Sinha, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Aakash Healthcare. These comments come amid rising public anxiety around unexplained deaths among adults aged 18 to 45. The ICMR-NIE multicentric study, conducted from May to August 2023 across 47 hospitals in 19 states, analysed cases of healthy adults who died suddenly between October 2021 and March 2023. The study found no increased risk of sudden death linked to COVID-19 vaccination. Complementing the ICMR-NIE findings, an ongoing AIIMS-led prospective study has identified myocardial infarction (heart attacks) as the leading cause of such deaths, with genetic mutations noted in some unexplained cases. Importantly, no significant deviation from pre-pandemic mortality patterns has emerged. 'When people hear of sudden deaths in the young, they panic. But attributing them to vaccines without evidence only spreads fear,' said Dr. Praveen Gupta, Chairman, Marengo Asia International Institute of Neuro and Spine. 'The data is clear—there is no causal link. Awareness, early diagnosis, and mental well-being must now be our focus.' Experts clarified that typical post-vaccination symptoms such as mild fever, fatigue, or muscle aches are short-lived and unrelated to cardiac functioning. 'These symptoms are completely different from true cardiac red flags like chest pain, palpitations, or fainting,' Dr. Sharma emphasised. The findings stress the urgent need for preventive cardiac screening, particularly in individuals with sedentary lifestyles, high stress levels, or a family history of heart disease. 'Vaccines have passed rigorous trials and regulatory scrutiny. Sudden cardiac deaths are multifactorial—but COVID-19 vaccination is not among the contributing factors,' reiterated Dr. Sinha. The Union Health Ministry, in a statement, reaffirmed its commitment to evidence-based public health communication and warned against misinformation that could undermine trust in future immunisation efforts. Experts are calling for responsible communication and increased awareness around early signs of heart disease to prevent further loss of life and public panic.
