CDSCO orders prescription‑only sales of painkillers and antibiotics to guard kidneys and curb misuse

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has ordered that painkillers and antibiotics be sold only with a doctor's prescription, warning that unchecked use can cause lasting kidney damage. In a circular dated 21 September 2026, the regulator reminded that both drug classes fall under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act of 1940 and the Drugs Rules of 1945, and therefore must be dispensed on a valid prescription. Most non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are listed in Schedule H, while the majority of antibiotics appear in Schedule H1, each carrying explicit warnings against over‑the‑counter sales. The notice directed doctors, pharmacists, retailers, hospitals and state drug‑control bodies to limit these medicines to cases where they are medically necessary, at the right dose and for the proper length of time. The public was urged not to self‑treat with antibiotics, especially for simple viral infections, and to follow the exact dosage prescribed, avoiding sharing or using leftovers. Patients with existing kidney issues or other risk factors were asked to inform their doctors before taking NSAIDs and to seek professional advice if pain or fever persists rather than repeatedly self‑medicating. Healthcare providers were told to weigh a patient’s age, other illnesses, concurrent medicines and kidney‑risk factors before prescribing, and to choose the lowest effective dose for the shortest feasible period. Doctors were also reminded to practice antimicrobial stewardship, steering clear of unnecessary drug combinations, wrong selections, incorrect dosing or overly long courses. Pharmacists and retailers must strictly obey Schedule H and H1 rules and should not facilitate self‑medication. Hospitals are expected to boost systems for rational prescribing, prescription audits, stewardship programmes and patient counselling, while state and Union Territory drug authorities should raise awareness about the dangers and legal obligations.