Paracetamol, PanD, and More than 50 Medicines Fail the Drug Standard Quality Test.
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has recently issued an alert regarding over 50 drugs, including common medications like Paracetamol and PanD, declared “Not of Standard Quality” (NSQ). This announcement raises significant concerns about drug safety and quality in India.
Overview of the NSQ Alert
On September 20, 2024, CDSCO published a comprehensive list detailing the drugs that failed quality tests conducted by central and state laboratories. The central laboratory findings revealed that 48 drugs were deficient, while state laboratories identified 11 drugs that did not meet quality standards. Notably, the list of medications widely affects millions of patients in the country.
Paracetamol: A widely used analgesic and antipyretic.
PanD: A combination drug for gastrointestinal issues. More than 53 unspecified medications failed quality tests.
Reasons Behind Quality Failures
The reasons for these quality failures can be several factors:
Manufacturing Practices: Some manufacturers may cut corners to reduce costs, leading to substandard products. It can include inadequate testing of raw materials and failure to adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
Supply Chain Issues: Disruptions in the supply chain can lead to poor-quality ingredients used in drug production.
Lack of Oversight: Insufficient regulatory oversight can allow substandard products to enter the market without proper scrutiny.
Safety Implications for Consumers
The declaration of these drugs as NSQ raises critical safety concerns. Consuming substandard medications can lead to ineffective treatment, worsening health conditions, or even adverse reactions. For instance, a poorly manufactured Paracetamol may not provide adequate pain relief or could contain harmful impurities.
Is It Safe for People?
While the CDSCO has flagged these drugs, consumers must be vigilant. Patients are advised to consult healthcare professionals before taking any medications from the NSQ list. The potential risks associated with these drugs immediately drew the attention of both consumers and healthcare providers.
Government Actions Required: To address this pressing issue, the Indian government must take decisive actions:
Strengthen Regulatory Oversight: Enhance monitoring and inspection protocols for pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities to ensure compliance with quality standards.
Increase transparency: Manufacturers should disclose detailed information about their production processes and quality control measures.
Public awareness campaigns: educate consumers about the importance of drug quality and how to identify potentially substandard products.
Encourage Reporting: Implement mechanisms for healthcare professionals and consumers to report suspected cases of substandard drugs easily.
Conclusion:
The CDSCO’s recent alert regarding over 50 drugs classified as not of standard quality is a significant public health concern. With common medications like Paracetamol and PanD, calcium and vitamin D3 supplements, anti-diabetes pills, and high blood pressure medicines included in this list, consumers and regulatory bodies take immediate action. By strengthening regulations and increasing public awareness, India can work towards ensuring that all medications available in the market meet the necessary safety and efficacy standards.
