CDSCO Sub-Zonal Office in Uttarakhand Relocates to Dehradun
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) has announced the relocation of its Sub-Zonal Office in Uttarakhand. All official submissions and communications should now be directed to its new address at CDSCO, Sub-Zonal Office The Survey of India, Survey Chowk Campus Plot No. 68, 17 EC Road Dehradun-248001 Uttarakhand.
Government Updates Medical Device Classification Lists, Seeks Public Feedback
Drafts of the revised classification lists are available for public review. Stakeholders, including industry associations and medical professionals, are encouraged to provide feedback through the dedicated Google Form by February 5, 2025. Following the feedback period, the CLA will finalize and publish the updated classification lists.
National Workshop Focuses on Combating India’s Rising NCD Burden
The Union Health Secretary emphasized the need for inter-sectoral collaboration, enhanced research, and innovative practices to combat the growing NCD burden. The importance of community-level initiatives like Fit India and Eat Right India was highlighted. Best practices from Nagaland (tobacco cessation) and Telangana (yoga and wellness) were also showcased. Programs from Assam (hypertension control), Tamil Nadu (NCD screenings), and Andhra Pradesh (cancer care) were presented as successful models for other states.
ESIC Issues Notification on Revision of Pharmaceuticals Purchase Policy (PPP) Products
Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) issued an important notification regarding the revision of its Pharmaceuticals Purchase Policy (PPP)
Government Extends Compliance Deadline for Small Drug Manufacturers
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has announced a proposed extension for small and medium drug manufacturers to comply with the revised Schedule M of the Drugs Rules, 1945. Following industry representations, the government has decided to extend the compliance deadline for manufacturers with a turnover of ₹250 crore or less. These companies can now apply for an extension until December 31, 2025. To avail of the extension, manufacturers must submit an application to the Central Licensing Approving Authority (CLAA) by April 4, 2025.
ICMR and CDSCO Seek Public Input on Draft Protocols For Standardizing IVD Testing
ICMR and CDSCO have developed a series of draft standard evaluation protocols for specific IVDs. These protocols outline the methodologies and criteria for testing the quality and performance of these diagnostic tools. ICMR and CDSCO are now inviting comments from all interested stakeholders on these draft protocols. This window for public input closes on February 15, 2025.
Central Government Prohibits Nimesulide Formulations for Animal Use
According to an official notification, the Central Government has determined that Nimesulide formulations are likely to involve risks to animals and that safer alternatives are readily available. After consulting the Drugs Technical Advisory Board, the government has concluded that it is necessary and expedient to impose this ban in the public interest.
Massive Drug Raid in Kolkata Uncovers Rs. 6.60 Crore Worth of Spurious Medicines
The raid targeted a wholesale premises located in Kolkata, and led to the seizure of a substantial quantity of suspected spurious drugs, including anti-cancer and anti-diabetic medications. Additionally, investigators discovered empty packing materials at the site, further raising concerns about the authenticity of the products.
CDSCO Publishes Not Of Standard Quality And Spurious Alert For November 2024
The NSQ drug list specifies a total of 70 drugs that were detected to be deficient by State Lab Drugs Control Laboratories. The NSQ drug list for central CDSCO laboratories specifies a total of 41 drugs that were detected to be deficient. Additionally, CDSCO has also identified 2 drugs to be spurious.
NPPA Approves Separate Pricing for Cipla’s Synchrobreathe Inhaler Device
The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) has approved separate pricing for Cipla Ltd.’s “Synchrobreathe Inhaler Device” when used with specific Budesonide and Formoterol formulations. This decision follows recommendations from a Multidisciplinary Committee of Experts and aims to promote incremental innovation in drug delivery.
