Govt Plans Tighter Rules For Prescription Drug Ads, Pharmacies And Wholesalers In Focus

The Union Health Ministry has proposed stricter advertising rules for prescription medicines, extending restrictions beyond drug manufacturers to pharmacies, wholesalers and distributors. The proposed changes cover Schedule H, H1 and X medicines, including antibiotics and other drugs that require medical supervision. Neetu Chandra Sharma explains how the move would require businesses to obtain prior government approval before advertising these medicines. The proposed rules aim to curb unauthorised promotion, reduce the risk of self-medication and strengthen oversight of prescription drug sales. The development could affect how pharmacies and medicine distributors market regulated drugs across India's pharmaceutical supply chain.