CDSCO and West Bengal Drugs Control Directorate Seize Counterfeit Anti-Cancer and Anti-Diabetic Drugs Worth Rs. 6.60 Crore

Arjoon Roy, AB News, Kolkata: In a decisive move against the growing threat posed by counterfeit medications, a joint investigation involving the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), East Zone and the Drugs Control Directorate of West Bengal has exposed a significant network engaged in the distribution of spurious pharmaceutical products. This operation culminated in a pivotal raid on the wholesale firm M/s Care and Cure For You in Kolkata, resulting in the seizure of a large quantity of anti-cancer, anti-diabetic and other essential medicines. Additionally, the owner of the company was arrested in connection with this case.

The seriousness of the operation is highlighted by the substantial amount of drugs discovered lacking valid documentation that would confirm their legitimate importation into India. Many of these products were falsely labelled as being manufactured in various countries, including Ireland, Turkey, USA and Bangladesh, and are now categorized as spurious. This situation raises significant concerns within the public health community, as these unverified medicines pose serious risks not only to individual health but also to the overall integrity of the healthcare system.

Valued at an estimated Rs. 6.60 Crore, the seized drugs underscore the extensive scale of the counterfeit medication trade. The presence of empty packaging materials further intensifies the issue, suggesting that these operations may have involved repackaging and distributing substandard drugs to vulnerable consumers. The CDSCO has committed to a thorough quality testing process for the confiscated medications, an essential step in evaluating the potential dangers these products may pose.

The ramifications of such illicit activities are severe. The presence of spurious drugs in the market can lead to catastrophic health outcomes, particularly for patients suffering from serious conditions requiring effective and reliable treatments. Substandard medications for critical illnesses such as cancer and diabetes can result in deteriorating health, increased side effects or even fatalities. Moreover, the adequacy of drug regulations and quality control is crucial to maintaining public trust in the healthcare system.

The operation’s effectiveness is further validated by the arrest of the wholesale firm’s proprietor, showcasing the legal consequences associated with the sale of counterfeit drugs. The accused is currently in judicial custody for 14 days, highlighting the seriousness with which authorities are treating this issue. Ongoing investigations aim to uncover any additional layers of wrongdoing related to this operation.

This crackdown aligns with recent comments by Health Minister JP Nadda, who noted in August that the CDSCO, in tandem with state drug controllers (SDCs), had undertaken more than 300 enforcement actions following risk-based inspections of approximately 400 drug manufacturing facilities as of July 2024. These inspections targeted facilities flagged for non-standard quality (NSQ) reports and consumer complaints, emphasizing a proactive approach to regulatory oversight.

“Raids and seizures are conducted after thorough investigations based on credible tip-offs and complaints,” a source from the drugs control department revealed anonymously.

The CDSCO has also publicly identified batches of specific drugs as spurious and listed 111 other drugs and formulations as NSQ in its November 2024 drug alert. As part of its ongoing regulatory surveillance, the CDSCO regularly collects drug samples from various sales or distribution points, analyzing them and updating the public regarding spurious drugs monthly.

From January to November 2024, the regulatory body reported finding 21 samples of spurious drugs and 729 NSQ drugs, although the total number of drug samples tested since March 2024 remains undisclosed.

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare’s commitment to ensuring public health is more critical than ever. This incident reflects a firm stance against the proliferation of counterfeit medications and reinforces the government’s zero-tolerance policy to protect consumers from their potentially devastating effects.

In summary, the alliance between the CDSCO and state authorities is vital in fighting the threat of spurious drugs. Their collective actions send a strong message to those who might exploit public health for profit. It is essential for consumers and society to remain vigilant, advocating for transparency, regulation, and accountability within the pharmaceutical industry. The future of our health and well-being relies on these concerted efforts, aiming for a reality where safe and effective medical treatments are the norm rather than the exception.