The medicine market, all set to go online soon across the country, may pose a huge threat to the youths as it is likely to encourage illegal trading of toxic drugs.
According to the Utkal Chemists' and Druggists' Association, the online availability of medicines is bound to put youngsters in danger as it will lead to sale of medicines which are available on production of prescriptions across the counters.
"The Centre is keen to promote e-commerce of medicines. But the move directly violates the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940," said association general secretary Chaudhury Prabir Das.
He added, "Section 65(10)(A) of the Act clearly mentions that one can purchase medicine after showing the doctor's prescription from the medicine retail stores. Section 65(10)(B) of the Act says that prescription should carry the patient's name and address. However, such rules cannot be followed in case of online trading of medicines. Therefore, such a move is not appropriate unless amendment is made to the present Act."
Notably, there is restriction on purchasing toxic drugs in India. Toxic drugs can only be provided to the patients if they produce the original prescription at the medicine stores as per Section 65(11) of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940.
The medicine retail store then puts a seal on the prescription after it is sold so that the customer cannot purchase that medicine from any other medicine store showing the same prescription.
Generally, toxic drugs are prescribed by doctors for patients suffering from psychological disorders, cancer and those who are yet to or have undergone surgery.
There are 68 types of molecule-based toxic drugs available in India. It is believed there will be no restriction on purchasing the drugs online.