The Economic Times

Health ministry proposes curbs on prescription drug ads by retailers, wholesalers and distributors

The union health ministry has proposed extending advertising restrictions on prescription drugs to retailers and distributors. This change will bar them from advertising certain medicines without prior government approval. The amendment affects drugs covered under Schedules H, H1, and X, which require medical oversight. The existing regulations already apply to pharmaceutical manufacturers. The recommendation for this amendment comes from the Drugs Technical Advisory Board.