The Centre has prohibited the manufacture, sale and distribution of 16 fixed-dose combination (FDC) drugs, saying they lack "therapeutic justification" and their continued use was not considered beneficial in relation to the potential risks involved.
The move, the Union Health Ministry said, was to safeguard public health and promote rational use of medicines while ensuring only effective
and scientifically validated medicines are available to the public.
All state drug controllers, regulatory authorities and enforcement agencies have been directed to ensure strict implementation of the notifications.
Manufacturers, importers, distributors and other stakeholders have also been advised to take necessary corrective measures to comply with the law.