Stories
Drug Regulator Warns Against Excessive Painkiller, Antibiotic Use; Flags Kidney Risks
- •The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) issued an advisory urging rational and responsible use of NSAIDs/painkillers and antibiotics due to potential risks.
- •Repeated or prolonged use of these medicines without proper medical advice can lead to adverse drug reactions, renal complications, and antimicrobial resistance.
- •Most NSAIDs and antibiotics are prescription-only drugs (Schedule H and H1) and should not be sold without a Registered Medical Practitioner's prescription.
- •Patients are advised against self-medication, sharing prescribed antibiotics, or using leftover medicines, and should seek medical advice if symptoms persist.
- •Healthcare professionals, pharmacies, hospitals, and state drug authorities are urged to ensure rational prescribing, monitoring, and public awareness regarding these medications.
Key Questions Answered
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) warned that the indiscriminate use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and antibiotics can lead to avoidable adverse drug reactions, renal complications, and antimicrobial resistance, specifically increasing the risk of chronic kidney disease and renal impairment.
Most non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are classified under Schedule H, while most antibiotics are covered under Schedule H1 of the Drugs Rules, 1945, meaning they legally require a prescription from a Registered Medical Practitioner for retail sale.
Doctors have been advised to prescribe NSAIDs and antibiotics only when clinically indicated after considering patient factors, to use the lowest effective dose of NSAIDs for the shortest duration for high-risk patients, and to follow antimicrobial stewardship principles for antibiotics.
