Pharmacists warned against selling regulated drugs without prescription

Mysuru: DC Lakshmikanth Reddy G, who is also the chairman of Narco Committee, has warned legal action against pharmacies selling drugs listed under Schedules H, H1 and X of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act-1940, without a valid doctor's prescription.As part of enforcement measures, the DC conducted a surprise inspection at a pharmacy on New Sayyaji Rao Road. During the visit, he examined bills and prescriptions related to the sale of regulated medicines falling under these schedules.Addressing officials and pharmacy staff, Reddy expressed concerns over the increasing misuse of such medicines, particularly among youth, who often procure them without proper medical guidance. He also directed all medical stores to prominently display notices informing the public that prescriptions are mandatory for purchasing Schedule H, H1 and X drugs.Officials noted that around 50 drugs, including Alprazolam, Codeine and Tapentadol fall under these regulated categories. Pharmacies are required to maintain detailed records of stock, sales, prescriptions and billing, which must be produced during inspections.SP Mallikarjun Baladandi said that given the large number of pharmacies in the district, it is challenging for drug control authorities to monitor compliance alone. He added the police department will intensify surveillance and inspections to curb violations. The inspection team comprised police commissioner Seema Latkar, assistant drug controllers Asha Latha and Wasim Sharif, and other officials.