Govt proposes mandatory CCTV to monitor unauthorised sale of prescription drugs
A proposed amendment seeks to address concerns relating to unauthorised sale of Schedule H, H1 and X drugs
The Union health and family welfare ministry in India has proposed amendments to the Drugs Rules, 1945, mandating medical stores to install CCTV cameras to monitor the unauthorised sale of prescription drugs. This proposal aims to strengthen regulatory oversight over Schedule H, H1, and X drugs, which require a valid prescription for sale, well-documented sales, and are habit-forming, psychotropic, or narcotic substances, respectively.
Complaints about pharmacists selling prescription drugs over the counter have prompted this measure. The proposed CCTV surveillance is considered an additional regulatory safeguard. The Drugs Consultative Committee and Drugs Technical Advisory Board have reviewed and recommended approval of this proposal. The ministry expects that implementing the amendment will help curb unauthorised sale and access to such medicines, improve transparency, and enhance accountability in the pharmaceutical supply chain.
The ministry has invited objections and suggestions on the proposed amendment, which can be submitted to the Under Secretary (Drugs) or emailed to a specific address.
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