The government is reportedly mulling restricting ads that promote drugs for cancer and diabetes and sex hormone medication to protect consumers from getting misled. A news report says that such ads will need prior approval.
The government has reportedly proposed amendments to the Drugs and Cosmetics Rule, 1945, to include regulations on medicine advertisements containing Schedule G drugs.
Schedule G drugs are non-prescription, critical drugs that often need supervision to administer. These drugs play a key role in public health. Hormonal medication, anticonvulsants, antihistamines, metformin, etc. come under the category of Schedule G drugs.
Presently, drugs under Schedule H, H1 and X need approval before advertising.
The draft rules are titled the Drugs Rules (Amendment), 2024, and open for feedback and objections from public for the next 45 days, say reports.
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare also reportedly highlighted existing provisions in the Drugs and Magic Remedies Act, 1954. These provisions prohibit ads that claim to cure certain listed diseases.
