Over several years, the Indian government has banned some drugs due to their potential health risks. These drugs include both prescription and over-the-counter medications. Banned drugs can pose a severe health risk to individuals who use them, and they can also contribute to the spread of drug resistance. One needs to be aware of the banned drugs in India to protect our health and safety. If you are unsure about whether a drug is restricted, it is always best to err on the side of caution and consult with a doctor.
The following are the drugs that are banned in India:
1. Amidopyrine (banned in 1995)
Use: This drug was used to treat pain and fever.
Side Effects: This drug can cause agranulocytosis (a decrease in white blood cells), aplastic anemia (a decrease in all blood cells), and liver damage.
2. Fixed dose combinations of vitamins with anti-inflammatory agents and tranquilizers (banned in 1995)
Use: These drugs were used to treat a variety of conditions.
Side Effects: These drugs can cause liver, kidney, and blood disorders.
3. Fixed dose combinations of Atropine and Analgesic Antipyretics (banned in 1995)
Use: These drugs were used to treat pain and fever.
Side Effects: These drugs can cause heart problems, seizures, and death.
4. Fixed dose combinations of Strychnine and Caffeine in tonics (banned in 1995)
Use: These drugs were used to improve energy and alertness.
Side Effects: These drugs can cause seizures, heart problems, and death.
5. Fixed dose combinations of Yohimbine and Strychnine with Testosterone and Vitamins (banned in 1995)
Use: These drugs were used to improve athletic performance.
Side Effects: These drugs can cause heart problems, seizures, and death.
6. Fixed dose combinations of Iron with Strychnine, Arsenic, and Yohimbine (banned in 1995)
Use: These drugs were used to treat anemia.
Side Effects: These drugs can cause liver, kidney, and blood disorders.
7. Fixed dose combinations of Sodium Bromide/chloral hydrate with other drugs (banned in 1995)
Use: These drugs were used to treat insomnia.
Side Effects: These drugs can cause liver, kidney, and respiratory problems.
8. Phenacetin (banned in 2002)
Use: This drug was used to treat pain.
Side Effects: This drug can cause kidney damage and cancer.
9. Fixed dose combinations of antihistaminic with anti-diarrhoeal (banned in 2002)
Use – These drugs were used to treat diarrhea.
Side Effects: These drugs can cause liver damage, kidney damage, and seizures.
10. Nimesulide formulations for human use in children below 12 years of age (banned in 2017)
Use: This drug is used to treat pain and inflammation.
Side Effects: This drug can cause liver, kidney, and heart problems in children.
11. Cisapride and its formulations for human use (banned in 2011)
Use: This drug was used to treat heartburn and acid reflux.
Side Effects: This drug can cause a serious heart rhythm disorder called Torsades de Pointes, which can be fatal.
12. Phenylpropanolamine and its formulation for human use (banned in 2006)
Use: The drug was used as a nasal decongestant and appetite suppressant.
Side Effects: This drug can cause a severe increase in the risk of stroke in women.
13. Human Placental Extract and its formulations for human use (banned in 2013)
Use: It was used to treat a variety of conditions.
Side Effects: This drug can cause blood clots, heart attacks, and strokes.
Tips for staying safe from banned drugs:
- Only take prescription drugs from a trusted source, such as a doctor or pharmacist – This drug was used to treat various conditions.
- Be aware of the risks of counterfeit drugs – Counterfeit drugs are often made with dangerous ingredients and can have serious side effects.
- Never share prescription drugs with others – Sharing prescription drugs can spread disease and lead to overdose.
- Dispose of unused prescription drugs properly – Do not flush them down the toilet or throw them in the trash. Take them to a drug take-back program or a pharmacy that offers drug disposal services.
- If you think you have taken a banned drug, seek medical attention immediately – Even if you do not feel sick, it is essential to get it directly.
- Educate yourself about banned drugs – The more you know about banned drugs, the better equipped you will be to make safe choices.
- Talk to your doctor about banned drugs – If you are concerned about the use of prohibited drugs, talk to your doctor.
