Home / Health / Govt Mandates CCTVs in Pharmacies to Curb Drug Misuse
Govt Mandates CCTVs in Pharmacies to Curb Drug Misuse
17 Sep
Summary
- Medical stores may soon require CCTV installation.
- Mandatory cameras aim to prevent illegal sale of prescription drugs.
- Amendments proposed to 1945 Drugs Rules are under public review.
The Union health and family welfare ministry has put forth proposed amendments to the Drugs Rules, 1945, potentially mandating CCTV camera installation in all medical stores. This initiative is designed to closely monitor the sale of prescription drugs, ensuring they are dispensed only with a valid prescription from a registered medical practitioner.
The proposed changes specifically target Schedule H, H1, and X drugs, which include those requiring prescriptions, those needing detailed sales records, and habit-forming or psychotropic substances. The move addresses growing concerns about the over-the-counter availability of these controlled medications.
Following deliberations by the Drugs Consultative Committee and a recommendation for approval from the Drugs Technical Advisory Board, the draft notification was issued on September 8. The ministry is now inviting public objections and suggestions regarding these proposed amendments.
This measure is expected to significantly improve transparency and accountability within the pharmaceutical supply chain. By strengthening regulatory oversight, the ministry aims to curb unauthorized access and sales, ultimately enhancing public health safeguards.
