UP's New Drug Abuse Trend: Blue Capsules Flood Illicit Market

Enforcement agencies in Uttar Pradesh are investigating a burgeoning trend of prescription drug abuse involving habit-forming "blue capsules." This emerging issue follows last year's uncovering of a multi-crore codeine cough syrup racket. Recent raids across the state have yielded narcotic and prescription medicines worth ₹1.37 crore, highlighting a significant diversion from legitimate pharmaceutical channels.

Investigators are now focusing on an alleged interstate supply chain that sources these habit-forming medications from outside Uttar Pradesh. The diverted drugs, including Spasmo Proxyvon, Pregabalin, Gabapentin, and Tramadol, are readily available on the illegal market. Their misuse is attributed to their low cost, ease of concealment, and the euphoric effects they can produce.

Officials are intensifying their crackdown on counterfeit medicines and the illegal sale of habit-forming drugs without valid prescriptions. A recent operation targeting an organized counterfeit drug syndicate involved fake billing and fabricated financial transactions. This led to an FIR against five accused individuals in Lucknow, with investigations uncovering significant discrepancies in medicine distribution and pricing.