A Guide to Banned Medicines in India 2023: Protecting Public Health

Taking medicine is a routine aspect of life for many, but not all medications are safe. The Indian government, through the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), diligently monitors and periodically updates the list of banned medicines to ensure public safety. As of 2023, this comprehensive guide sheds light on the banned medications, providing transparency and accessibility for the general public.

Some medicines find themselves on the banned list for various reasons. These include safety concerns leading to serious side effects like liver damage, kidney failure, or, in extreme cases, death. Ineffectiveness in treating the intended condition, impurity or contamination affecting quality, and manufacturing violations that compromise safety standards are all grounds for a medicine to be banned.

There are two main categories of banned medicines in India:

1. Single Drugs:

These are individual medications prohibited for use due to safety concerns or a lack of therapeutic justification.

2. Fixed-Dose Combinations (FDCs):

These are combinations of two or more drugs in fixed proportions. They are banned if found irrational, unsafe, or lacking proper scientific evidence.

List of Banned Single Drugs:

Amidopyrine

Phenacetin

Nialamide

Chloramphenicol (Except for ophthalmic and topical preparations)

Phenylpropanolamine

Furazolidone

Oxyphenbutazone

Metronidazole (topical application for acne)

List of Banned FDCs (As of December 2023):

Nimesulide + Paracetamol Dispersible Tablet

Amoxicillin + Bromhexine

Pholcodine + Promethazine

Chlopheniramine Maleate + Phenylephrine Hydrochloride + Caffeine

Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide + Chlorpheniramine Maleate + Phenylephrine Hydrochloride

Ambroxol Hydrochloride + Guaiphenesin + Levosalbutamol + Menthol

Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide + Ambroxol Hydrochloride + Guaiphenesin

Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride + Phenylephrine Hydrochloride + Ammonium Chloride

Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide + Phenylephrine Hydrochloride + Chlorpheniramine Maleate

Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide + Doxylamine Succinate + Phenylephrine Hydrochloride

Pholcodine + Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide + Chlorpheniramine Maleate

Ambroxol Hydrochloride + Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide + Guaiphenesin

Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide + Doxylamine Succinate + Guaifenesin

Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide + Chlorpheniramine Maleate + Guaifenesin

Understanding the reasons behind the bans empowers individuals to prioritize their health when it comes to medication choices. Stay informed and make decisions that align with your well-being.