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UP Cites Codeine Syrup Abuse, Seeks Stricter Drug Laws
14 Nov
Summary
- Uttar Pradesh suggests overhauling drug distribution to stop illegal codeine syrup trade.
- Investigation shows codeine syrup is diverted from legal channels for non-medical use.
- Proposals include QR codes, track-and-trace systems, and a new drug schedule.
The Uttar Pradesh Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) has proposed sweeping changes to India's drug distribution system to curb the illicit diversion of codeine-based cough syrups. An investigation by the department indicated that substantial amounts of these syrups are disappearing from authorized retail markets, suggesting their use for non-medical purposes.
The FSDA's recommendations focus on enhancing control over the entire supply chain, from manufacturing to final distribution. They emphasize that codeine-based syrups should exclusively move through established, authorized channels. Companies are urged to supply only to their approved stockists within Uttar Pradesh, preventing the creation of parallel, unauthorized distribution networks.
To improve transparency and accountability, the FSDA suggests mandatory advance notification to state drug controllers for all dispatches of codeine-based cough syrups and other controlled substances. This would allow states to monitor quantities, batches, suppliers, and destinations. Furthermore, a QR code or barcode-based track-and-trace system, similar to that used for TB drugs, is proposed for real-time monitoring from production to sale.
Additional proposals include the creation of a new Schedule H3 for drugs with a high misuse potential and the establishment of stocking limits based on verified state consumption needs. The FSDA clarified that codeine-based cough syrup is a recognized medicine, but its diversion for intoxication, particularly in border areas, is a serious concern that needs to be addressed without impacting legitimate patient access.
