The Central Government has banned the manufacture, sale and distribution of 16 fixed-dose combination (FDC) medicines, stating that these drugs lack therapeutic justification and that their risks outweigh any potential benefits.
The Union Health Ministry said the decision was taken to protect public health, encourage the rational use of medicines and ensure that only scientifically validated and effective drugs remain available in the market.
Among the banned formulations are combinations such as Acetyl Salicylic Acid with Ethoheptazine and Dicyclomine, Paracetamol and Clidinium Bromide.
The government has also prohibited several antibiotic-based combinations, including Amoxicillin with Serratiopeptidase. In addition, a number of skincare and dermatological products containing Aloe Vera or Aloe Extract combined with ingredients such as Vitamin E, Jojoba Oil, Orange Oil, Wheat Germ Oil, Tea Tree Oil, Allantoin and D-Panthenol have been included in the ban.
Officials said the move is aimed at ensuring the availability of safe, effective and evidence-based medicines for consumers.