In a significant move to control the risk of falsified drugs, the Telangana Drugs Control Administration (DCA) has issued a Spurious Drug Alert and Stop Use Notice for all drugs claiming to be manufactured by 'Meg Lifesciences’.
Telangana DCA has become attentive that certain drugs are claimed on the label as manufactured by 'Meg Lifesciences, Khasara No. 47/5, Palli Gaon, Distt. Sirmour, 173 001. These drugs are being circulated in the market after the recent raid conducted by the authorities. Stocks worth Rs. 33.35 lakhs claimed to be manufactured by Meg Lifesciences were seized in the raid. Cases have been registered against several culprits involved in this spurious drug racket.
These drugs have been found to be fake medicines manufactured by anti-social elements. These fake medicines do not contain any active ingredient, i.e., ‘Nil’ medicine. They have been found to contain chalk powder and starch, causing significant health risks to consumers.
Certain spurious drugs claimed on the label as manufactured by Meg Lifesciences (a fictional or non-existent company) were seized by DCA, Telangana, including MPOD-200 tablets (Cefpodoxime Proxetil and Lactic Acid Bacillus tablets), Cefoxim-CV tablets (Cefpodoxime Proxetil and Potassium Clavulanate Lactic Acid Bacillus tablets), and MEXCLAV 625 tablets (Amoxicillin and Potassium Clavulanate Lactic Acid Bacillus tablets).
Telangana DCA issued a press release on 5 March 2023 to consumers and healthcare professionals, informing STOP to stop using it immediately. A press release said to discontinue the use of any drugs claiming to be produced by 'Meg Lifesciences.' Also, retailers and wholesalers are directed to stop the sale and distribution of any drugs bearing the label 'Meg Lifesciences’. It also added to inform the area Drugs Inspector immediately.
Upon further probe, it has been confirmed that 'Meg Lifesciences' is a fictitious or non-existent company.
Given the scenario, the Telangana DCA further urged the public to remain aware and report any information regarding the distribution or sale of drugs from this reported manufacturer, 'Meg Lifesciences. The press release also provided a toll-free number, 1800-599-6969, which is operational from 10:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on all working days. This toll-free number can be used to report the spurious drug.
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/Komal Bhoi/MSM)