Commonly used medicine for cough, chilly, ache and pores and skin irritation corresponding to paracetamol, nasal decongestants and antifungals could quickly be accessible with out prescription because the Centre plans to record them below the over-the-counter (OTC) class. The Union Health Ministry has instructed amendments to the Drugs Rules, 1945, to deliver 16 such medicines below Schedule Ok for offering exemptions from requiring a health care provider’s prescription in order that they are often offered over-the-counter by retail sellers below a legitimate license.
A gazette notification in search of solutions from stakeholders inside a month over the matter has been issued by the ministry.
Those 16 medicines embrace Povidone Iodine, an antiseptic and disinfectant agent; Chlorohexidine mouthwash for gingivitis, Clotrimazole an antifungal cream; Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide lozenges for cough; analgesic ointment Diclofenac; Benzoyl peroxide which is an antibacterial for pimples; Diphenhydramine capsules, an antihistaminic and antiallergic drug; Paracetamol; some nasal decongestants and laxatives.
Once the proposal is cleared, these medicine may be offered in retail OTC with out docs’ prescription with sure riders corresponding to the utmost length of therapy mustn’t exceed 5 days and if the signs don’t resolve the affected person ought to seek the advice of a health care provider.
Source: www.financialexpress.com”