But while the Centre is set to categorise more drugs as OTC, it is also drawing a legal regulatory framework to avoid misuse of high-risk drugs, especially antibiotics. The Centre is now trying to address this loophole by drawing a legal framework for OTC medicines.The Drugs Consultative Committee, headed by a joint secretary in the health ministry, has formed a sub-committee with a mandate to draw up a legal framework to regulate OTC drugs. The panel will also study international models and list of OTC drugs in other countries for reference. This will include provisions for penalty and punishment against those selling prescription drugs over the counter. "Once we have a notified list of OTC drugs, it will be easier to track those selling 'prescription only' drugs without a prescription from registered medical practitioner.

Source: Economic Times November 29, 2016 06:00 UTC