In an unexpected yet significant move, the State Drugs Control Administration (SDCA) took action against at least nine pharmacies — trade licenses of five cancelled and four suspended — for sale of illegal and restricted drugs last week. The Health department updated that the action was initiated after conducting an inspection/campaign across Nagaland to address the growing concern of licensed pharmacies engaging in the illegal sale of codeine-based syrup and psychotropic substances, as well as widespread misuse of such pharmaceutical products by youngsters. Reaffirming its resolve to fight the menace of drug abuse in the state, the Health department said it would strictly enforce ban on certain pharmaceutical products commonly abused by many. This crackdown on the sale of illegal drugs is commendable and a much-needed one, especially when the state is grappling with drug addiction. The growing threat posed by the rapidly changing drug scenario, wherein prescription medicines and over-the-counter (OTC) medicines are abused for recreational purposes, is also alarming and a challenge to public health. As health professionals, pharmacists should abstain from selling prohibited drugs. Instead, they should help detect possible prescription medicine abusers and prevent drug diversion. Community participation is required to make the state’s ‘war against drugs’ campaign a success. On its part, the state government should not close the matter with a one-time checking. Besides regular surprise inspections, the concerned authorities should set a precedent by taking stringent action against defaulters.
The issue related to the sale of restricted drugs is not confined to Nagaland. It’s a matter of global concern. Authorities across the world are struggling to prevent the sale of habit-forming drugs, and the easy availability of prescribed medicines from e-pharmacies has added a different dimension to the menace, as unauthorised drug dealers can obtain restricted pharmaceutical products online. India is yet to frame a policy for the online sale of drugs despite repeated directives from the court over petitions filed for not taking action on e-pharmacies. In framing such a policy, the central government can’t afford to give room for manipulation in procuring medicine that requires a prescription, including antibiotics. Failing to do so can have serious consequences on public health. The government also should create awareness among the general population, especially those who are more vulnerable, about the ill-effects of OTC drugs if abused and dangers associated with self-medication. Healthcare professionals should also explore ways to avoid prescribing habit-forming drugs, considering the potential misuse by some and the rising number of such cases.