Centre plans nationwide crackdown on illegal sexual enhancement drugs, calls it threat to public safety, social dignity
Subscribe to enjoy similar stories.NEW DELHI: The Centre is preparing to crack down on the illegal sale, distribution and misuse of sexual enhancement medicines, with the drug regulator warning that it has become a threat to both public safety and social dignity, according to two government officials and a document reviewed by Mint.This regulatory action against unauthorized products sold without valid prescriptions has been ordered by Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) Dr. Rajeev Singh Raghuvanshi.
Apart from the physical risks, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), the regulator, has expressed alarm over serious social concerns arising from the misuse of these drugs, particularly their unregulated sale to younger people.The use of sexual performance medicines such as sildenafil, tadalafil and vardenafil for erectile dysfunction and dapoxetine for premature ejaculation without medical advice can be risky, experts said. They can affect the flow of blood and may interact with other drugs.
Side-effects can include a dangerous drop in blood pressure. Counterfeit or unregulated medicines may contain unsafe ingredients or wrong doses.To combat the vexed issue, the CDSCO has outlined a four-point mandate for all state and Union Territory drug controllers: raids against illegal clinics, unauthorized pharmacies and unregulated online platforms; new legislative measures; educating law enforcement agencies including the police on the risks posed by these substances; and stricter monitoring to strengthen compliance with prescription norms and licensing conditions.Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Cipla, Mankind, Zydus Lifesciences, Eli Lilly & Company, Alkem Laboratories and Dr Reddy’s Laboratories are among
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