India bans cough syrup sales without licence

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New Delhi: The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has made a major change to the Drugs Rules, 1945. Under the new rules, cough syrup will no longer be sold without a licence, even in small villages with a population of less than 1,000.

The government has removed the word “syrup” from Schedule K. Earlier, the sale of cough syrup in small villages under this category was exempt from certain licensing requirements.

With the new change, cough syrup can now be sold and distributed only through licensed medical stores or pharmacies. The rule will be applicable under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, and its related rules.

According to the Health Ministry, the decision has been taken to better monitor the sale and distribution of cough syrup, prevent drug abuse and strengthen public health protection.

The government said the change will ensure that cough syrup sales across the country are more responsible and in accordance with established standards. The ministry has advised cough syrup manufacturers, distributors and drug sellers to strictly comply with all licensing and regulatory norms.