Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Mar 12: The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) has issued an advisory to pharmaceutical manufacturers, importers and marketing authorisation holders to ensure strict compliance with provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act 1940 and the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945 while promoting prescription medicines.

The advisory specifically highlights concerns regarding promotional activities related to GLP-1 receptor agonists and similar drugs used for obesity and metabolic disorders.

The regulator noted that certain disease awareness campaigns and digital outreach initiatives could indirectly promote prescription-only medicines to the general public.

CDSCO clarified that such medicines must be prescribed strictly by registered medical practitioners in accordance with approved indications and conditions of marketing authorisation.

It reiterated that any direct or indirect advertisement of prescription medicines to the public is strictly prohibited, including promotional activities through print, electronic, digital or social media platforms.

The advisory also warned that activities exaggerating therapeutic claims, guaranteeing weight-loss outcomes or undermining the importance of lifestyle changes such as diet and physical activity would be treated as misleading promotion.

The drug regulator has directed all stakeholders to strictly follow regulatory and ethical marketing practices.

Companies have also been asked to ensure the availability of proper prescribing information, maintain consumer grievance mechanisms and submit comprehensive risk management plans to support ongoing safety monitoring.

The advisory further emphasised that obesity is a chronic metabolic condition that requires comprehensive management, including lifestyle interventions, and pharmaceutical therapy should not be projected in a way that weakens broader public health initiatives.