Latest news with #BDRPharmaceuticals
Hindustan Times
28-07-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
World Hepatitis Day 2025: Expert shares 5 reasons why hepatitis cases spike in monsoon
World Hepatitis Day 2025: Liver inflammation caused by infections can lead to hepatitis, a condition marked by symptoms such as dark urine, jaundice, and abdominal pain. Cases of hepatitis often see a noticeable rise during the rainy season. Also read | Hepatitis alert: Gastroenterologist lists 8 groups of people who are at higher risk; shares when to get tested Hepatitis cases spike in the rainy season.(Shutterstock) Commenting on this, in an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Aravind Badiger, Technical Director, BDR Pharmaceuticals said, 'Hepatitis A and E, especially, are spread mainly due to the intake of infected food and water. With heavy rains, poor hygiene, waterlogging, and damage to clean water supply lines provide perfect opportunities for such outbreaks.' Dr Aravind Badiger further shared the reasons why hepatitis cases spike during the rainy season: 1. Contaminated drinking water is the leading cause Mixing of sewage and drinking water is generally caused by flooding and leaking pipelines during the monsoon season. This contamination is a significant source of hepatitis virus outbreaks, particularly in the urban and semi-urban areas, which are densely populated. Consumption of a small amount of contaminated water or raw food washed in it may cause infection. 2. Unhygienic food practices amplify risk The open-air food, such as street food, cut fruits, and juices, is usually subjected to rainwater and unhealthy environments. The food handlers might fail to observe hygiene, and this raises the chances of viral transmission. These seasonal activities are some of the reasons that lead to increased cases. Also read | Hepatitis can cause liver disease: Gastroenterologist shares common causes, symptoms, prevention tips Hepatitis can lead to liver damage.(Freepik) 3. Symptoms often overlooked or misdiagnosed Hepatitis has common symptoms of fatigue, fever, loss of appetite, nausea, yellowing of the skin (jaundice), and dark urine, which are usually similar to other monsoon diseases. This leads to late detection of the disease, thus giving the virus time to spread and complications to intensify. 4. Prevention is often ignored Drink only boiled or RO-filtered water. Raw fruits or salads and street food should be avoided during the monsoon. Make sure to wash your hands with soap before meals. Keep food in clean, covered containers. Hepatitis A and B vaccination should be considered, particularly in high-risk patients. 5. Community awareness and early action are crucial Chlorination of water supply, frequent inspection of restaurants, and sensitization during monsoon should be the target of the public health systems. One can avoid long-term liver damage by being vigilant of the symptoms and reporting to the doctor at the first instance. Also read | World Hepatitis Day 2025: Kids may be at hepatitis A risk in monsoon! Paediatrician shares prevention tips 'The outbreaks of hepatitis during the rainy season are avoidable. Safe hygiene, access to clean water, and prompt medical care can ensure that the infection of hepatitis is well contained, and the infection limited,' Dr Aravind Badiger highlighted. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
The Hindu
04-07-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
Unchecked anti-ageing, wellness supplement market in India could pose huge health risks: doctors
The death of 42-year-old actress Shefali Jariwala, recently, has brought to the fore the rapidly-expanding anti-ageing and over-the-counter herbal supplements market in the country. As per estimates, this market in India is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 12.10% between 2025 and 2034. Doctors say that not only does this growing market have very few regulations, it now caters to diverse segments of the population -- even to people in their 20s. Understanding products in the market Anti-ageing products, say experts, incorporate active ingredients in them, while herbal supplements often marketed as 'safe' alternatives to medicines, could contain steroids. 'What is often sold as 'natural' or 'safe' can sometimes be silently dangerous. This tragedy (death of Ms. Jariwala) compels us to pause and reconsider how we approach wellness, especially at a time when supplements, detoxes, and herbal mixes are available at the click of a button— without regulation, without screening, and too often, without medical guidance,'' warned Ajara Sayyad, aesthetic dermatologist and regenerative medicine expert at The Eterne Clinic, Mumbai. She added that in recent years the market has been flooded with beauty and health supplements— powders for glowing skin, capsules for hair regrowth, gummies for weight loss, herbal teas for detox, and pills to 'balance hormones. 'Most are marketed as Ayurvedic, natural, or plant-based, and therefore mistakenly assumed to be risk-free. The body, however, responds to biochemical signals, regardless of their source. These supplements when taken without proper medical guidance may disrupt hormonal balance, burden the liver and kidneys, cause allergic reactions, interfere with medications and can trigger latent or undiagnosed medical conditions,'' she said. Also Read: Government keen to accelerate growth of India's nutraceuticals sector Safety first While the exact cause of death in Shefali Zariwala's case is still under investigation, the combination of long-fasting, use of multiple wellness drugs and related medical complications is also being looked into, said Aravind Badiger, technical director, BDR Pharmaceuticals. 'Any type of medical therapy must be customised for the individual, considering lifestyle, diet, and underlying conditions. Fasting can alter the body's electrolyte balance, hydration status, and blood glucose levels, which can affect the absorption and metabolism of medications.'' He added that even well-adjusted therapies may behave differently when taken in a state of fasting, and so, dosing, timing, and monitoring are vital. The goal should always be to effectively and safely improve health, he noted. Misinformation abounds However, some doctors also note that there is no connection between these drugs and possibly adverse events. 'Recent headlines have raised public anxiety by loosely linking anti-ageing injections to severe adverse outcomes, including death. This connection is unsubstantiated and misleading. Anti-ageing injections—such as botulinum toxin (Botox), dermal fillers (like hyaluronic acid), and mesotherapy serums—are clinically approved and widely used worldwide, often under dermatological or plastic surgeon supervision. These are minimally invasive aesthetic procedures with strong safety records when administered correctly. There is no direct evidence to suggest that anti-ageing injections, when administered properly, have ever caused early death,' explained Viral Desai, a board-certified plastic and cosmetic surgeon working in Mumbai. He added that serious risks, like vascular occlusion, are exceptionally rare and typically result from improper technique or untrained personnel—not from the injection material itself. The need for regulation Doctors across the board however, stress the urgent need for far more regulation in the herbal supplements and nutraceuticals sector than there currently exist. Misleading advertisements have to be curbed, unsubstantiated claims should not be allowed on product packaging or in adverts, stringent monitoring of the ingredients has to be carried out and quality checks must be put in place, they say.
Time of India
07-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Gut health is the root cause of unexpected weight gain and cravings
Over the last few years, there has been increasing medical opinion that much of the body's health problems like weight gain and perpetual hunger could be originated in the stomach. For Indians with unexplained weight loss or gain in spite of regular food or measured portions, the solution could lie not in the food they eat but the way the body processes and digests it. The gut, or gastrointestinal tract, is inhabited by trillions of bacteria that comprise what's called the gut microbiome. This intricate community of microorganisms dictates everything from digestion and nutrient consumption to immunity, metabolism, and even mood. If this balance is disrupted a process called dysbiosis it can set off a sequence of metabolic and hormonal reactions that lead to weight gain, bloating, fatigue, and cravings for unhealthy foods. Here's how body weight is affected by gut health: 1. Gut bacteria and metabolism Some species of gut bacteria are responsible for the breakdown of food and its conversion to energy directly. Their imbalance slows down metabolism and leads to fat storage in the body even when calorie consumption is not higher. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch CFD với công nghệ và tốc độ tốt hơn IC Markets Đăng ký Undo A non-diverse gut may also release fewer short-chain fatty acids, which are proven to suppress appetite and fat burning. 2. Effect on hunger hormones and cravings An unhealthy gut can elevate levels of ghrelin (the hunger hormone) and lower leptin (the satiety hormone), leaving individuals hungrier more frequently. This imbalance may result in constant cravings, particularly for sugar and processed foods a complaint that most Indian patients with unpredictable eating habits raise. 3. Role of antibiotics and processed foods The overuse of antibiotics, and even consumption of highly processed foods, can destroy the lining of the gut and eliminate beneficial bacteria. Self-medication and frequent use of antibiotics are extremely prevalent in India and lead to chronic digestive imbalances. 4. The stress connection Stress, which is widespread in Indian urban lifestyles, can modify gut microbiota and enhance inflammation. The gut-brain axis two-way communication between the digestive system and the brain — implies that stress has a direct effect on digestion and appetite regulation. How to Enhance Gut Health for Weight Management: - Boost dietary fiber with vegetables, fruits, and whole grain foods. - Eat fermented foods such as curd, buttermilk, idli, and dosa to restore good bacteria. - Don't overuse antibiotics. - Exercise daily and stress manage with yoga or meditation. - Take probiotics under medical supervision. Dr. Aravind Badiger, Technical Director, BDR Pharmaceuticals One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
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Business Standard
09-05-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
Indian hospitals along borders are ready to deal any medical emergencies
During times of war, medical needs go beyond just emergency care. Doctors need to deal with chronic conditions, infectious diseases, mental health issues, and trauma Md Zakariya Khan New Delhi As military tensions mount along India's western frontier following renewed provocations from Pakistan, leading pharmaceutical companies and hospital networks of the country have assured the central government of their readiness to manage any potential medical emergencies. Industry representatives conveyed confidence in their supply chains and emergency response capabilities, underscoring their commitment to national preparedness during uncertain times. 'Critical care products related to hospitals like cephalosporins, painkillers and haemostatic agents… India has enough capacity to meet any eventuality,' Dharmesh Shah, chairman and managing director of Mumbai-based BDR Pharmaceuticals, told Moneycontrol. Shah also said that the government already keeps a stock of these critical care supplies for such situations. The report mentioned that the Fortis Hospital in Amritsar, just 30 kilometres from the Pakistan border, has confirmed it has activated emergency plans after getting an advisory from local authorities. Punjab hospitals gear up for emergencies The hospital has put emergency services on high alert, created a Rapid Response Team, reserved beds for emergencies, and kept its trauma team ready. Fortis also runs hospitals in Ludhiana and Mohali, both located in Punjab, the border state next to Pakistan. Across the state, hospitals have stocked essential medicines, medical supplies, and blood units, while emergency drills are underway to ensure full preparedness. An official from the Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance (IPA) told Moneycontrol that the industry is 'always prepared to support the government with necessary medicines and medical consumables.' Hospitals stock critical supplies, stay prepared Key medicines needed in such situations include painkillers like morphine and paracetamol, antibiotics such as amoxicillin and ciprofloxacin, tetanus injections, IV fluids, and agents to stop bleeding. Hospitals also require supplies like bandages, surgical kits, splints, and equipment for blood transfusions. 'At the moment, the focus of the government is on military objectives, with casualties along the LoC largely being treated by government healthcare facilities,' said Ameera Shah, president of NATHEALTH and executive chairperson of Metropolis Healthcare, as quoted by Moneycontrol. 'In case if there is any escalation of the situation, our members are ready to offer support to the government as we did during the Covid pandemic,' she said.
India.com
05-05-2025
- Health
- India.com
The Gut-Thyroid Connection: How IBS And Hypothyroidism Impact Metabolism
When we think of metabolism, we often picture calorie-burning or energy levels. But beneath that surface lies a far more complex system—one where the gut and the thyroid are in constant conversation. It's becoming increasingly clear that conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and hypothyroidism don't just coexist by coincidence—they often feed into each other, creating a ripple effect that can slow down metabolic function, disturb hormonal balance, and leave patients stuck in a loop of chronic symptoms. Dr. Aravind Badiger Technical Director BDR Pharmaceuticals shares the connection between gut and thyroid. The gut is more than just a digestive organ. It plays a role in everything from nutrient absorption to immune regulation—and even hormone activation. In fact, a significant portion of inactive thyroid hormone (T4) is converted into its active form (T3) with the help of the gut microbiome. So, when that microbiome is thrown off balance, as it often is in IBS, thyroid function can be compromised. On the flip side, when thyroid hormones are low, as in hypothyroidism, the entire digestive process slows down. This sluggish gut movement contributes to constipation, bloating, and even bacterial overgrowth—symptoms commonly associated with IBS. It's not just a case of one condition triggering the other; it's a continuous loop. Poor gut health interferes with thyroid hormone conversion and absorption, while hypothyroidism further impairs gut motility and microbial diversity. As a result, patients often experience not just digestive discomfort or fatigue in isolation—but a mix of symptoms that overlap and intensify over time. Adding to this complexity is the role of the immune system. Autoimmune hypothyroidism, such as Hashimoto's, is often linked to increased intestinal permeability—also known as 'leaky gut.' This allows inflammatory molecules and undigested food particles to slip into the bloodstream, potentially triggering or worsening autoimmune responses. What starts in the gut doesn't stay in the gut; it extends its influence to the thyroid, metabolism, mood, and beyond. From a pharmaceutical lens, there's a growing need for integrated solutions. Traditional thyroid hormone replacement therapy, like levothyroxine, remains a mainstay—but in patients with digestive issues, absorption can be inconsistent. This has led to interest in combination therapies that include both T4 and T3, as well as novel formulations that bypass gut absorption altogether. On the gastrointestinal side, treatment approaches are expanding too. Beyond symptom management, targeted therapies now address underlying bacterial imbalances, inflammation, and motility. Medications like rifaximin for SIBO, probiotic support for microbiome restoration, and dietary interventions like the low-FODMAP diet are part of a broader, more interconnected approach to care. The pharmaceutical industry is beginning to respond with research and innovation that respects this complexity, recognizing that when it comes to metabolism, the gut and thyroid are two sides of the same coin. In the end, understanding the gut-thyroid connection is about seeing the body as an integrated whole. It's about moving beyond symptom suppression to systemic support. And as science and medicine continue to catch up with what patients have long felt in their bodies—that everything is connected—we edge closer to real, lasting solutions for both digestive and thyroid health.
