Raids Uncover Unlicensed Medical Shops, Counterfeit Medicines, and Overpriced Drugs
Hyderabad: The Telangana Drugs Control Administration (DCA) has ramped up its efforts to combat illegal drug sales, conducting extensive raids across the state. The operation targeted unlicensed medical shops, clinics with unqualified practitioners, and falsely advertised pharmaceuticals. In multiple districts, the DCA seized a substantial quantity of counterfeit, unlicensed, and overpriced medicines, urging compliance with licensing and pricing regulations to safeguard public health.
Key Raids and Findings
1. Raid on Unlicensed Medical Shop in Suryapet District
A medical shop in Errapahad Village, operating without a valid drug license, was raided, resulting in the seizure of 30 types of medicines worth approximately Rs. 22,000. Samples were collected for analysis, and the DCA warned suppliers against distributing to unlicensed establishments.
2. Seizure at Unqualified Practitioner’s Clinic in Yadadri-Bhuvanagiri District
In Deshmukhi Village, an unqualified practitioner was found illegally dispensing antibiotics and other medicines. Thirty-one types of medicines, valued at Rs. 38,382, were seized. The DCA stressed the risks posed by unqualified individuals dispensing antibiotics, including the potential for antimicrobial resistance.
3. Misrepresentation of Pharmaceuticals as Nutraceuticals in Khammam
A product, Feromen XT Tablets, was falsely marketed under a food license rather than a drug license, in violation of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. The DCA highlighted the health risks of such misrepresentation.
4. Overpriced Medicines Seized in Kamareddy
DCA officials seized overpriced Mupirocin Cream in Kamareddy, which violated the ceiling price set by the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA). Legal action will be pursued to maintain affordable access to essential medicines.
5. Misleading Health Claims in Ayurvedic and Siddha Medicines
The DCA identified Ayurvedic and Siddha products making false health claims in various districts, including Nizamabad, Medchal-Malkajgiri, and Mahabubnagar. Products like NORMACT Tablets and D-Co-D Tablets falsely claimed to treat conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes, violating the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, 1954.
Public Encouraged to Report Suspicious Activities
The DCA urges the public to report any suspicious drug-related activities through their toll-free helpline at 1800-599-6969, available from 10:30 am to 5:00 pm on working days.
