GENERAL23 Sept 2026
India steps up efforts to eliminate hepatitis as public health risk by 2030
India has restated its goal of ending hepatitis B and C as public health threats by 2030. Separately, the drug regulator CDSCO has warned against casual use of painkillers called NSAIDs and antibiotics, linking them to chronic kidney disease. These medicines sit under Schedule H and H1, so chemists cannot sell them without a doctor's prescription. Buy them only when a registered doctor advises.
Key Statutory Highlights
- India reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating hepatitis B and C as public health threats by 2030, focusing on prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment and care.
- The CDSCO advisory circular dated September 21 warned against indiscriminate use of NSAID painkillers and antibiotics because of Chronic Kidney Disease risks.
- Most NSAIDs fall under Schedule H and most antibiotics under Schedule H1 of the Drugs Rules, 1945, so they cannot be sold by retail without a registered medical practitioner's prescription.
Actionable Advice for Taxpayers / Founders:If you run a pharmacy or clinic, or use these medicines yourself, follow the prescription-only rule and the stated dose and duration. It is wise to check the circular with a registered medical practitioner or your compliance advisor before making changes.
Statutory Disclaimer: TaxQue Shorts are AI-assisted editorial briefs for compliance awareness. This brief has not passed every source check; confirm the original notification before acting. This does not constitute formal legal or CA counsel.
TaxQue News Desk
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