Nagaland Drugs Control Administration issues advisory on purchasing medicines, checking expiry dates, and prescriptions.
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DIMAPUR — In the interest of public health safety and compliance with mandatory legal provisions, the Drugs Control Administration (DCA), Directorate of Health and Family Welfare, Kohima, has issued an advisory for information to all citizens.
The advisory urged citizens to collect a cash memo or credit memo for all medicines purchased, as it is a legal document for further investigation.
It stated to purchase medicine only from pharmacies with a valid drugs licence and to verify its validity through third-party verification in the ONDLS portal.
It advised buying from a pharmacy where the medicines are dispensed by a registered pharmacist who will be in uniform (white coat or apron) with a name tag and registration number.
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The administration asked citizens to report any adverse drug reactions or serious side effects through the toll-free number 1800 180 3024. It also stated to report to the District Drugs Control Administration unit under the Chief Medical Officer's office for any side effect or any drugs having less effect or no effect so that necessary investigation can be initiated.
The advisory highlighted checking for critical information: Brand and generic name (e.g., "Panadol" (brand) / Paracetamol (generic)); manufacturer's name and address; batch number, manufacturing date, and expiry date. It emphasised never to use expired medicines, to check dosage strength, and to store medicines as per the direction given in the cover or label for better therapeutic action.
It further stated that a prescription from a registered medical practitioner is a mandatory legal document for possession of drugs or medicines under Schedule H and H1 of the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules.
It warned never to purchase such medicines without a prescription or consultation with a physician, adding, “Such medicines are dangerous for health if not used properly.”