‘Suspension orders’ issued for 106 medical shops over sale of habit forming drugs

The Telangana Standards Authority for Food and Essential Drugs (TG SAFE) has suspended 106 medical shops in Hyderabad and its surrounding areas for violations relating to the sale of habit-forming drugs, while cancelling one licence, and issuing warnings to three establishments.

The action follows a special enforcement drive conducted by the Drugs Wing of TG SAFE where raids were carried out at medical shops in vulnerable areas to curb the illegal sale and diversion of habit-forming drugs. A total of 110 actions were initiated against medical shops found violating provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, and the rules framed under it.

Of the 106 suspension orders issued, 99 shops have been suspended until further orders, while two establishments face suspension for three days, and five for seven days. One drug licence has been cancelled, and three establishments have been issued warnings.

TG SAFE has cautioned chemists and druggists against selling habit-forming drugs, including psychotropic medicines and Schedule H and H1 drugs, without valid prescriptions from registered medical practitioners. It has also directed medical shops to maintain purchase, sale and stock records as required under the law.