As we approach the end of 2024, it’s clear that the Government of India has taken significant steps to prioritize public health this year. One of the most notable actions was the ban on 156 fixed-dose combination (FDC) drugs by the Health Ministry.
This decision reflects a strong commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of the population. The gazette notice from the government emphasized that the production, marketing, and distribution of these medicines are no longer permitted due to the health risks they pose.
Impact on Common Medications
The banned medications include many that people commonly rely on in their daily lives, such as widely used diabetes medications, antibiotics, pain relievers, and even multivitamins. Some of the notable drugs affected by this ban are mefenamic acid and paracetamol injections, which are typically used for pain and fever relief.
Additionally, certain medications for urinary infections, including combinations like Ofloxacin and Flavojet, have also been removed from the market. The Health Ministry’s decision to restrict high doses of paracetamol, which can be harmful, further underscores the seriousness of this initiative.
Consequences for Pharmaceutical Companies
The ban on these medications is set to have significant repercussions for various major pharmaceutical companies, including Sun Pharmaceuticals, Cipla, and Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories. Notably, a drug containing phenylephrine, commonly used for cold and cough relief, has also been banned due to its potential to cause heart problems and increase blood pressure when misused.
In addition to this, the removal of high-dose Vitamin D medications and various antibiotics, such as “ceftin” and “colistin,” highlights the government’s ongoing efforts to ensure that only safe and effective treatments are available to the public. As the year wraps up, it’s evident that these measures are aimed at fostering a healthier future for all.
| Sr. No. | Drug Combination | Primary Use | Reason for Ban |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mefenamic Acid + Paracetamol Injection | Pain relief and fever reduction | Lack of therapeutic justification |
| 2 | Cetirizine HCl + Paracetamol + Phenylephrine HCl | Treatment of cold and allergy symptoms | Safety concerns |
| 3 | Levocetirizine + Phenylephrine HCl + Paracetamol | Alleviation of cold and allergy symptoms | No proven therapeutic benefit |
| 4 | Paracetamol + Chlorpheniramine Maleate + Phenylpropanolamine | Relief from cold symptoms and nasal congestion | Potential health risks |
| 5 | Camylofin Dihydrochloride + Paracetamol | Treatment of abdominal pain and cramps | Lack of efficacy and safety concerns |
