Drug Ban By Govt Causes Arousing Discontent: Basic Drugs Such As Paracetamol and Cetirizine Pronounced as ‘Irrational’, Public in Disbelief
In a decision that has created huge uproar in medical and pharma world, Govt of India has banned 156 combination drugs, and some of the most popular medicines which have been banned now include Paracetamol, Cetirizine and Caffeine (used in painkiller) amongst others. The decision has now led to concerns being raised on why such widely prescribed drugs are prohibited in the first place, based on inputs from the Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB) and an Expert Committee. Fanning the fires, the government is said to be evaluating 34 multivitamins, which could see them under the knife as well. Critics say the large-scale ban could mean cutting off millions of patients from their usual prescriptions, upending medicines regimens across the country.
‘Irrational’ or Essential?
The Gazette notification also says that the banned drugs don’t have therapeutic justification and could also jeopardize human health, terming them “irrational.” But many in the medical community and patients themselves are challenging the government’s judgment, saying there has been decades of extensive use with very few problems. Paracetamol is a commonly used drug in Indian homes for fever and pain. “To suddenly ban its combination drugs overnight seems very unreasonable,” said a senior doctor, requesting anonymity. The actual addition of the multivitamins in question has further muddled the difference. Multivitamins are largely regarded as benign supplements so the potential ban has left consumers and physicians scratching their heads.
Industry Backlash
Experts predict billions of rupees of revenue at stake for pharmaceutical firms, which are girding for colossal losses. Government, the insider said, was being “overzealous” and ignoring patient interests and market realities”. The government relying on expert committees and not engaging properly with stakeholders in respect of that decision will erode confidence in the process,” said a prominent pharmaceuticals lobbyist.
Public Reaction
“Patients all over the country are worried, and those who use these combination drugs for chronic ailments are worried the most. Social media has seized on the decision, with hashtags like #DrugBan and #HealthcareCrisis trending. “This ban feels like a punishment to regular folks who just want it to be affordable and it to work,” tweeted one.
Uncertain Future
But while the government is defending its decision to appeal the court order as being in the “larger public interest,” critics say it would set a dangerous precedent. If the branded and globally trusted Paracetamol combinations can be considered harmful, then what’s next? For better or for worse, the true results of this decision will play out in the next few weeks, when a nation will wonder whether its healthcare system is indeed prioritizing the good of the public – or failing victim to red tape.
