CDSCO Tightens Rules: Painkillers and Antibiotics Only on Prescription

The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) has flagged the indiscriminate use of painkillers and antibiotics, advising that these medicines be sold and distributed only against the prescription of a registered medical practitioner or specialist.

The advisory covers all non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as well as antibiotics, a class of medicines widely used for pain relief and for treating bacterial infections. Under the direction, pharmacies and distributors are expected to dispense these drugs only when a valid prescription is presented.

The move is aimed at curbing the casual and often unnecessary use of such medicines, which can contribute to problems including antimicrobial resistance and adverse health effects from unmonitored consumption. By restricting sales to prescription-only channels, the regulator seeks to ensure that these drugs are used under appropriate medical supervision.

The advisory applies across the country and places the onus on sellers and distributors to comply with the prescription requirement. It reinforces the existing legal position that certain categories of medicines cannot be sold over the counter without the advice of a qualified medical professional.