Fake drug racket: Drug companies must cooperate with investigations

The state government has ordered a ban on the sale of all types of medicines manufactured by multinational pharmaceutical company Pfizer, citing its non-cooperation with the investigation into the recently exposed fake drug racket in the state. The government has also suspended the drug stocking licence issued to the company.

From the perspective of protecting public health, the government’s action is timely and justified. The government must take strict action against pharmaceutical companies that display such conduct and send a clear message to the entire pharmaceutical industry as well as everyone working in the healthcare sector that there can be no compromise when it comes to healthcare services.

The government has also taken legal action against wholesale and retail establishments involved in the fake drug racket. At the same time, it has intensified the investigation by forming a special investigation team comprising officials from various departments to trace the source of the racket. The Health Minister has said that the racket has spread across the state and that more pharmaceutical companies and sellers may be involved. Those found guilty will face legal action, he said.

The minister had earlier warned manufacturers, suppliers and sellers of fake and substandard medicines against such practices. However, those warnings had not translated into action. With a large-scale fake drug racket now coming to light, it is somewhat encouraging that the minister has taken action in line with his earlier statements.

Need for stricter quality checks

Along with investigating the fake drug racket, the government should further tighten its guidelines to ensure the quality and authenticity of various medicines manufactured by all companies available in the market.

Medicines should be inspected at regular intervals as per a fixed schedule. Medicines available at pharmacies should also be subjected to periodic inspections.

There have also been allegations in some parts of the state that expired medicines are being repackaged and sold as new products. The Drug Control Department should pay attention to this issue.

As counterfeit versions of medicines of various reputed companies, including multinational firms, are reportedly entering the market, the respective companies should also maintain strict surveillance. Whenever such allegations surface, they should examine the matter and initiate legal action against those involved in the racket.

Drug companies must cooperate with investigations

Whenever cases involving fake medicines come to light, all pharmaceutical companies should extend full cooperation to the investigations. This would also help strengthen public trust in the companies.

Pharmaceutical companies and those working in the healthcare sector must not forget that if medicines meant to protect innocent people’s lives end up threatening those very lives, it would leave a major stain on the healthcare sector.