Complaint against the drugs violating the provisions of Drugs & Cosmetic Act, 1940 and rules thereunder

Arogya Sahayya Samiti on 26th February 2019 submitted a representation to The Commissioner of Food & Drug Administration, Goa regarding the implementation of Drugs & Cosmetics Act, 1940 & rules thereunder in its letter and spirit – Unhygienic & harmful packaging of drugs product viz. Cipladine, Povi-10, Acivir cream etc.

Arogya Sahayya Samiti had an occasion to meet some patients complaining of skin ointments, cosmetic lotions and other skin products packed into collapsible tubes. Patients noticed that the ointments (Cipladine, Povi-10, Acivir cream) got consumed within 2-3 days and more than half tube had no ointment and filled only with air. The consumer/patient suspected that air in contact with active ingredients in the ointment may cause contamination inside the tube. Some chemical reaction may take place resulting into the decomposition of the ointment.

Patient also suspected that oversized tube is used to fill less of ointment leading to the conclusion that manufacturing company might be cheating by filling less quantity which is offence under The Legal Act, 2009. It is also claimed by patients that the containers of Zandu Balm, Baidyanath Kanth Sudharak Vati (throat reliever) etc are only half filled with  the product. It is observed that using big container for less quantity of medicines is unnecessary wastage of packing material which may increase the cost of product.

Demands by Arogya Sahayya Samiti in the interest of Public Health,

• Investigate the complaint by taking into consideration the scientific and technical approach, the aspect of good manufacturing practices as laid down under ‘Sechdule M’ of Drugs & Cosmetic Act & Rules as well as paitent’s interest.
• Inform us about the action taken by you against the manufacturers of all above mentioned drug products or any other action taken by you in the interest of public health.

Copy of Representation