Health Ministry seeks to ban prescription drug ads by retailers and distributors

The Union Health Ministry has moved to ban advertising of prescription medicines by drug retailers, wholesalers and distributors, extending the current prohibition that applies only to manufacturers. A draft amendment published in Gazette notification G.S.R. 861(E) on September 28 proposes a new sub‑rule under Rule 65 that stops licence‑holders who sell, stock, exhibit, offer for sale or distribute drugs listed in Schedules H, H1 and X from advertising them without prior central government approval. Under today’s rules, manufacturers need approval but the ban does not cover entities in the supply chain. The amendment aims to tighten oversight of promotion for drugs that require medical supervision, such as certain antibiotics and psychotropic medicines, to curb inappropriate self‑medication. The change follows recommendations of the Drugs Technical Advisory Board’s 93rd meeting on February 16, 2026, which highlighted the need to regulate ads by drug‑sale licence holders. The Ministry has opened a 30‑day window for public objections and suggestions after the Gazette notification is made available, and will consider all submissions before finalising the rule. ## Context In India, Schedule H, H1 and X medicines can be sold only with a prescription, and advertising them can encourage misuse. Extending the ad ban to retailers aligns with global health efforts to limit promotion of drugs that need professional oversight.