The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has cautioned against the indiscriminate, repeated, or prolonged use of painkillers and antibiotics, citing the associated risk of chronic kidney disease and renal impairment.
The circular directed stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, pharmacists, retailers, hospitals, and State drug control authorities, to ensure that such medicines are used only when clinically indicated, at the appropriate dose and for the appropriate duration.
People with pre-existing kidney disease or other risk factors for renal impairment have been advised to inform their healthcare professionals before taking NSAIDs. The CDSCO also urged people to seek medical advice if pain, fever, or other symptoms persist or recur instead of repeatedly taking painkillers or antibiotics on their own. Doctors have also been advised to follow antimicrobial stewardship principles while prescribing antibiotics and to avoid unnecessary combination therapy, inappropriate drug selection, incorrect dosing, and unnecessarily prolonged treatment. The CDSCO has also asked hospitals and healthcare institutions to strengthen systems for rational prescribing, prescription review, antimicrobial stewardship, and patient counselling. State and Union Territory drug control authorities have been asked to create awareness about the risks and regulatory requirements.
