AIOCD warns of grave concerns for permitting OTC drugs sale without license

All India Organization of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD) has expressed deep concern over the Central Government’s proposal to permit the sale of Over-The-Counter (OTC) drugs without a license in India.

In a detailed memorandum submitted to the Health Minister, Principal Health Secretary, Drug Controller General of India, Director General of Health Services, Chairman of the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA), and other relevant authorities, AIOCD highlighted the significant risks associated with this proposal.

AIOCD President, JS Shinde and General Secretary Rajiv Singhal emphasized that such a move would contravene existing drug laws, pharmacy regulations, and pertinent legal frameworks, including directives from the Supreme Court.

Allowing OTC drug sales without proper regulation poses serious threats like dangerous self-medication and drug abuse, increased risk of adverse drug reactions and proliferation of counterfeit drugs and delayed access to healthcare services among others.

AIOCD has urged the government to consider the multifaceted implications of this proposal, emphasizing that unregulated availability of medications in general and grocery stores does not serve the best interests of society.