DCC: Take action to Curb Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in India

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a serious and growing threat to public health globally.

The Health Master

April 23, 2024

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Last Updated on September 30, 2024 by The Health Master

Antimicrobial Resistance

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a serious and growing threat to public health globally.

The Drugs Consultative Committee (DCC), India’s leading advisory body on drug regulations, recently met to discuss and recommend measures to tackle this issue within the country.

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Strengthening Regulatory Frameworks for Antimicrobials

Action Taken Reports by States:

The DCC emphasized accountability by recommending that each state submit an action plan outlining their efforts to combat AMR to the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO).

This transparency will enable assessment of progress and identify areas needing improvement.

Quality Management for Drug Production:

The committee advised developing guidelines to ensure a robust quality management system implemented by both the CDSCO and State Drug Controllers (SDCs).

This ensures consistent quality of antimicrobials throughout the supply chain.

Enforcement of Schedule H & H1 Regulations:

Schedule H & H1 classify highly restricted antibiotics.

The DCC highlighted the importance of enforcing regulations regarding the manufacture, sale, and distribution of these drugs to prevent misuse and slow AMR development.

Digitalized Supply Chain Management:

The committee encouraged manufacturers to leverage their digital supply chain networks for better tracking and control of antimicrobials. This transparency can help identify potential diversion or overstocking.

Read and Download minutes of all meetings of DCC

Collaborative Measures for Effective AMR Control

Sensitization & Education Programs:

The DCC called for issuing directions to manufacturing associations, chemist associations, and enforcement officials.

Educational programs can raise awareness about AMR and promote responsible use of antibiotics.

Dedicated State Consultations:

The CDSCO will hold consultations with states to share best practices and discuss challenges faced in combating AMR.

This collaborative approach can lead to more effective and unified national strategies.

State-Level Nodal Cells for AMR:

Recognizing the importance of coordinated efforts, the committee proposed establishing dedicated nodal cells within each state to handle issues specific to AMR.

These cells can facilitate communication, data collection, and implementation of action plans.

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Tackling Pharmaceutical Waste: A Crucial Aspect

Implementation of Revised Schedule M:

The DCC emphasized strict adherence to the waste disposal provisions outlined in the revised Schedule M of drug regulations.

Proper disposal of expired or unused antimicrobials is critical to prevent environmental contamination and the emergence of resistant pathogens.

Strengthening Waste Management by State Drug Regulators:

The committee stressed the role of state drug regulators in ensuring proper waste management practices, particularly during inspections of manufacturing units producing antimicrobials.

This active oversight can identify and address potential lapses.

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Standardized SOP for Antimicrobial Waste Disposal:

The DCC proposed creating standard operating procedures (SOPs) for antimicrobial waste disposal.

States will be invited to share their current practices to inform the development of these SOPs by the CDSCO.

This will ensure a consistent and effective approach across the country.

By implementing these comprehensive recommendations, India can take significant strides in curbing AMR, safeguarding public health, and aligning with global efforts to address this critical challenge.

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