Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Feb 28, 2024 8 months, 3 weeks, 3 days, 22 hours, 42 minutes ago
Pharma News: In a disconcerting turn of events, the pharmaceutical industry in Himachal Pradesh, India, is facing intense scrutiny as 374 medicine samples from companies located in the Baddi-Barotiwala and Nalagarh areas have failed quality tests in the past year. The revelation came to light during the Question Hour session in the Assembly House, raising concerns among various Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs). Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Dhaniram Shandil addressed the assembly, providing insights into the government's swift response and the steps taken to address the alarming situation.
374 Medicine Samples Fail Quality Tests In Himachal Pradesh-India
The Unsettling Findings
The failed medicine samples encompassed a wide array of commonly used drugs in the state, including NSAIDs, statins, and medications for blood pressure, diabetes, heart issues, gastric reflux, arthritis, among others. Shockingly, some of the drugs were not only sub-standard but also contaminated with toxic substances. Of particular concern were pediatric medications that were found to pose serious risks if consumed.
Even vials containing active pharmaceutical ingredients for intravenous use were found to be contaminated!
This is not the first time that testing of pharmaceutical products in Himachal Pradesh have yielded shocking results. According to
Pharma News coverages in August 2023, 21 samples of drugs made in the Himachal Pradesh were found to be sub-standard or contaminated.
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/shimla/21-samples-of-drugs-made-in-himachal-fail-quality-test/articleshow/103002345.cms
Government Action
Dr Shandil assured the assembly that the Health Department had taken immediate action in response to the failed quality tests. Notices have been issued to several pharmaceutical companies, and licenses of some have been canceled.
The Health Minister emphasized the implementation of stringent measures against those found in violation of pharmaceutical regulations. Himachal Pradesh currently boasts 38 active drug controllers tasked with monitoring and inspecting the quality of medicines produced within the state.
Investing in Quality Assurance
To bolster the government's capacity to conduct rigorous quality tests on medicines, a state-of-the-art laboratory, constructed at a cost of Rs 32 crore, is set to be inaugurated soon. This investment underscores the commitment to ensuring the safety and efficacy of pharmaceuticals within the state.
Addressing Concerns
Dr Shandil addressed concerns raised by MLAs regarding companies rebranding and reopening under new names after facing drug sample failures. He unequivocally stated that companies engaging in such practices
would be expelled from Himachal. Additionally, he announced that investigations would be launched into companies attempting to evade scrutiny through rebranding.
Calls for Greater Oversight
The Health Minister's statements in the Assembly have ignited a call for greater oversight and stringent action against companies compromising on medicine quality. MLAs Kewal Singh Pathania, Vipin Singh Parmar, and Dr. Janak Raj collectively urged the government to prioritize public health and safety. They emphasized the need for robust measures to prevent such incidents in the future, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
Conclusion
The pharmaceutical crisis in Himachal Pradesh serves as a stark reminder of the crucial role government oversight plays in ensuring the quality and safety of medicines. As the state takes decisive action against errant pharmaceutical companies, the emphasis on transparency, accountability, and investment in advanced testing facilities is crucial to rebuilding public trust. The unfolding events underscore the imperative for continuous vigilance and strict enforcement of pharmaceutical regulations to safeguard public health.
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