Last Updated on May 15, 2024 by The Health Master
OTC Drugs
Great news for those seeking easier access to essential medications! The Indian government has taken a significant step towards establishing a comprehensive Over-the-Counter drugs (OTC drugs) policy.
This policy aims to improve healthcare accessibility by allowing the sale of certain medications without a doctor’s prescription at local stores.
Expert Panel to Finalise OTC Drugs List
A committee of leading gynecologists, chaired by Dr. Atul Goel (Directorate General of Health Services), has been tasked with finalising the official OTC drugs list.
This esteemed panel includes:
- Dr. Atul Goel (Directorate General of Health Services)
- Dr. Bindu Bajaj (Safdarjung Hospital),
- Dr. Ashok Kumar (RML Hospital), and
- Dr. Reena (Lady Hardinge Medical College).
They are expected to complete the list within the next two weeks.
A Long-Awaited Policy
This move follows the 2022 decision by the Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB) to approve a new OTC policy.
However, the policy’s implementation was delayed. The primary objective behind the OTC drugs policy is twofold:
- Reduced Treatment Costs: By making essential medications readily available at local stores, the government aims to make healthcare more affordable for citizens.
- Promoting Self-Care: Enabling self-care for minor ailments empowers individuals to manage their health proactively.
Filling the Regulatory Gap
Unlike developed nations like the US, UK, and China, India lacked a defined framework for OTC drugs.
This resulted in inconsistencies, with some commonly used medications like cough and cold syrups or contraceptives being sold over the counter despite lacking official authorization.
Focus on Safety and Availability
The upcoming OTC drugs list will be meticulously curated, prioritizing:
- Safety: Only medications with a proven safety record will be included on the list.
- Availability: Widely available drugs will be prioritized to ensure ease of access.
- Non-Habit Forming: Medications with no potential for addiction will be favored.
Officials have assured a prompt notification of the finalised OTC drugs list, empowering citizens to make informed choices about their healthcare.
This initiative signifies a positive step towards a more accessible and cost-effective healthcare system in India.
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