There has been a major disclosure about the quality check of medicines in India. In the latest survey conducted by Central Drug Testing Laboratories, 47 drug samples have been found ‘not of standard quality (NSQ)’. These samples include commonly used drugs such as vitamin supplements, antibiotics and antacids.
How is medicines tested?
According to the Ministry of Health, drug samples, identified as NSQ, are identified on the basis of failure in their specified quality parameters. This process is done regularly every month in government laboratories. The ministry clarified that the failure applies only to the tested batch, and there is nothing to worry about other medicines available in the market.
Quality of 56 drugs suspected at state level also
Not only central laboratories, but state drug testing laboratories have not found 56 drug samples of standard quality. This situation can become a matter of concern for consumers, as the general public depends on these medicines for daily treatment.
Fake drugs are also increasing danger
In February, the government revealed that a drug sample in West Bengal was identified as a fake medicine. This drug was made by an unauthorized manufacturer using the brand name owned by another company. The investigation of this case is still going on.
What are the government and regulators doing?
The Ministry of Health and the Drug Regulatory Authority are constantly monitoring it. Officials said NSQ, wrong branding and fake drugs are identified regularly. By coordinating with state regulators, the process of removing these quality failed drugs from the market is going on continuously.
What precautions should be taken by consumers?
Experts say that common people should be more cautious while buying medicines. The following precautions should be taken before purchasing the medicine:
Always buy medicine from certified pharmacy.
Do check the batch number and expiry date of the medicine.
If you see abnormal symptoms after taking any medicine, contact the doctor immediately.
When purchasing the medicine online, use only authorized and reliable websites.
This disclosure related to the quality of the medicine highlights an important issue in the Indian health sector. The government and drug regulators should make the process of drug testing more rigid so that only safe and effective medicines reach the general public.
