Government bans sale of Analgin, Pioglitazone and Deanxit
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has banned the sale of three widely popular medicines – painkiller Analgin, anti-diabetes drug Pioglitazone and anti-depressant Deanxit in the wake of health adversities associated with these drugs.
What is the reason behind the ban?
Under the Drugs and Cosmetic Act 30-B, sale of any drug, the use of which is prohibited in the country of origin, is banned in India until clinical data substantiate that it is risk free.
The ministry has been the postponing the withdrawal of Analgin and Deanxit, which are not marketed globally, for many years despite pressure from a parliamentary panel. The government has thus taken a stand on banning the sale of drugs that have been prohibited in US, UK, Canada, Japan, European Union or Australia.
What are the risks with the use of these drugs?
- Analgin: It use can cause complications in patients suffering from chronic pulmonary infections and bronchial asthma. It can also decrease in the count of white blood cells, which can be fatal.
- Pioglitazone: Though generally used in against type 2 diabetes and hyperglycemia, there has been higher occurrence of fractures hands and feet in female diabetics given this drug and is also associated with bladder cancer and congestive heart faliure.
- Deanxit: It is a mix of Flupenthixol and Melitracenis, considered a harmful combination.
Month: Current Affairs - June, 2013
Category: International / World Current Affairs