New Delhi: In a significant step to strengthen public health and prevent the misuse of medicines, the Central Government has prohibited the over-the-counter (OTC) sale of medicines containing more than 12% alcohol without a valid doctor’s prescription.
The new regulations, introduced through amendments to the Drugs Rules, 1945, aim to curb the misuse of certain liquid medicines, including cough syrups, tonics, and other formulations that contain high levels of alcohol. Under the revised rules, medicines with more than 12% alcohol in bottles larger than 30 ml can no longer be sold without a prescription from a registered medical practitioner.
According to the government, the move has been taken to prevent the use of such medicines as intoxicants and to ensure they are consumed only for legitimate medical purposes.
The new rules also place additional responsibilities on pharmacies. Medical stores will now be required to maintain a separate register recording every sale of these medicines. The register must include details such as the patient’s name, the prescribing doctor’s information, the quantity of medicine sold, and the date of sale. Pharmacies will be required to preserve these records for at least three years, enabling health authorities and investigating agencies to verify transactions whenever necessary.
Health experts have welcomed the decision, stating that it is likely to reduce the misuse of alcohol-based medicines and promote safer medication practices. However, they noted that patients who previously purchased such medicines directly from pharmacies will now need to consult a doctor before obtaining them.
The Central Government said the measure is part of its broader efforts to promote the responsible use of medicines, prevent substance abuse, and strengthen public health safeguards across the country.
