Banned drugs continue to be sold, prescribed, and purchased in open market

In August 2024, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) banned 156 fixed-dose combination (FDC) drugs due to safety concerns, but these drugs continue to be sold and prescribed. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) is responsible for regulating drug safety, but under-resourcing, slow recall processes, and legal challenges from pharma companies contribute to the persistence of banned drugs on the market. The continued sale of these drugs poses risks, such as antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and adverse reactions, particularly in rural areas with low consumer awareness. The issue also burdens India's healthcare system with increased costs. Stronger regulatory enforcement and public awareness are crucial to addressing this growing public health crisis.

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