DCA seizes misleading Nutraceuticals, falsely advertised medicines

HYDERABAD: The Drugs Control Administration (DCA) of Telangana has seized multiple pharmaceutical products falsely advertised as nutraceuticals and medicines during a series of raids on August 28 and 29. The operation targeted misleading claims that posed potential health risks to the public.

In a significant raid in Tandur, Vikarabad District, officials confiscated "Neurocad-G Tablets" (Gabapentin and Methylcobalamin Tablets), which were being falsely marketed as a food product. These tablets, containing Gabapentin 300 mg and Methylcobalamin 500 mcg, were manufactured illegally by Pristine Remedies in Sonipat, Haryana, under a Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) license. According to the DCA, the product should be classified as a drug under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. It must be manufactured under a proper drug license, adhering to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).

The raid, led by Drugs Inspector A.N. Kranthi Kumar, resulted in the seizure of these tablets from a medical shop in Tandur. Samples have been sent for further analysis, and authorities have warned that such illegal practices could result in severe health risks and legal consequences, including imprisonment for up to five years under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act.

Additionally, DCA officials targeted misleading advertisements of various other medicines across the state. Among the seized products were "Kineaz Oil," an Ayurvedic medicine falsely claiming to treat Rheumatoid Arthritis; "Stone Crush Ras" and "Gementis Stone Removal Syrup," both Ayurvedic remedies falsely claiming to treat kidney stones; "Dengue Aid," a Homeopathic medicine claiming to treat fevers; and "Roughan Haft Barg," a Unani medicine claiming to treat rheumatism. These claims violate the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act of 1954, which prohibits advertisements for certain diseases and disorders.

The DCA has pledged to continue its investigation and pursue legal action against those involved in these deceptive practices. Citizens are encouraged to report suspicious drug manufacturing activities or illegal advertisements to the DCA via their toll-free number.

DCA Director General V.B. Kamalasan Reddy emphasised the need for vigilance against fraudulent activities to ensure public safety and compliance with legal standards in the pharmaceutical industry.