2 hrs ago
Centre Proposes Tighter Prescription Drug Advertising Curbs Across Supply Chain
The government has proposed new rules about advertising some medicines that need a prescription.
Right now, the approval requirement applies to manufacturers, but the rules do not clearly cover retailers and wholesalers.
The draft would also cover businesses licensed to sell or distribute these medicines.
They would need approval from the Central Government before advertising them.
The medicines include some antibiotics and psychotropic drugs that require medical supervision.
The ministry says the change could help prevent unauthorised promotion and unsafe self-medication.
The proposal is not yet final.
People and organisations can send comments within 30 days after the draft notice is made available.
The Union Health Ministry has proposed extending prescription-drug advertising restrictions to retailers, wholesalers and distributors.
The draft would require prior Central Government approval to advertise Schedule H, H1 and X medicines.
It proposes adding a new sub-rule under Rule 65 of the Drugs Rules, 1945.
The ministry says the change is intended to curb unauthorised promotion and reduce risks from inappropriate self-medication.
Stakeholders and the public may submit objections or suggestions within 30 days of the draft notification being made available.
- Who
- The Union Health Ministry has proposed the change; retailers, wholesalers and distributors would be covered.
- What
- A draft amendment would require prior Central Government approval for advertisements of Schedule H, H1 and X medicines by licensed sellers and distributors.
- Where
- The proposal concerns the Drugs Rules, 1945.
- When
- The draft was notified on September 28, 2026, following a Drugs Technical Advisory Board meeting on February 16, 2026.
- Why
- The ministry says it aims to strengthen oversight, curb unauthorised promotion and reduce risks from inappropriate self-medication.
Key facts
- Draft notification
- G.S.R. 861(E)
- Notification date
- September 28, 2026
- Rules to be amended
- Drugs Rules, 1945
- Proposed provision
- New sub-rule (22) under Rule 65
- Medicines covered
- Schedule H, H1 and X medicines
- DTAB meeting
- 93rd meeting, held February 16, 2026
- Comment period
- 30 days after the draft Gazette notification is made available
Sources
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