The Union ministry of health and family welfare has banned 16 more fixed dose combinations (FDCs), including skin medications, painkillers and muscle relaxants, citing limited therapeutic use.
The health ministry issued notifications under Section 26A of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, prohibiting the manufacture for sale, sale and distribution for human use of 16 FDCs.
The decision follows directions of the Supreme Court, which mandated a comprehensive review of FDCs available in the country.
The prohibited FDCs belong to various therapeutic categories, including certain dermatological preparations, analgesic and antispasmodic medicines and antibiotic-based formulations.
Among the FDCs banned are the combinations of aloe extract, allantoin, alphatocopherol acetate, D-penthenol and vitamin A; aloe extract, vitamin E, dimethicone and glycerine; and others.
The government has directed all state drug controllers, regulatory authorities and enforcement agencies to ensure strict implementation and compliance with the notifications.
