The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has announced an immediate ban on the manufacture, sale, distribution, and use of the drug Nimesulide and its formulations for animal use. This decision comes after concerns were raised about the potential risks to animals, particularly vultures, and follows a directive from the Hon’ble High Court of Delhi. This public notice was issued on February 20, 2025.
Reports of adverse effects from Nimesulide use in animals have surfaced periodically, raising concerns about its safety. The High Court of Delhi, in a hearing on September 1, 2023, in case of Gaurav Kumar Bansal Vs Union of India, directed the government to explain why Nimesulide had not been banned.
In response, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare issued a notification dated December 30, 2024, formally prohibiting the drug’s use in animals.
The directive, issued to all State/UT Drugs Controllers, instructs them to alert their inspectorate staff and maintain strict vigilance over the manufacture, sale, and distribution of Nimesulide. Controllers are also required to take all necessary regulatory measures to prevent the illegal production and sale of the drug and ensure its misuse in animals is prevented.
State/UT Drugs Controllers are further requested to report the details of actions taken to enforce the ban to the central authorities for further action. This nationwide ban aims to protect animal health and safeguard vulnerable species like vultures from the potential dangers associated with Nimesulide use.
