New Delhi: The Central government has issued a new rule that from now on, cough syrup will not be available in medical shops without a doctor’s prescription. The Central government has issued a very important order to strengthen public health protection and prevent excessive misuse of cough syrups. According to a notification issued by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on June 9, from now on, no cough, cold and fever syrup can be obtained without an official prescription from a doctor.
The Central government has officially removed the term “syrup” from the old Schedule K of the Drugs Rules of 1945. Earlier, there was an exemption from certain licensing rules for the sale of cough syrups in small villages with a population of less than 1,000. But now, syrup cannot be sold without a license even in small villages.
After the new change, all types of cough syrups will have to be sold only through pharmacies licensed under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940. It is now mandatory for customers to show a doctor’s certificate.
There has been an increase in misuse. The health ministry said that this stringent measure has been taken to check this and ensure responsible drug sales across the country. The government has warned that strict action will be taken against manufacturers and distributors who violate the rules.