Proposal to replace the words “CHEMISTS & DRUGGISTS” BY “PHARMACY” the “Drug & Cosmetic Rules, 1945” by Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO)

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In the 82nd MEETING OF DRUG TECHNICAL ADVISORY BOARD HELD ON 02.04.2019 AT DGHS, NIRMAN BHAWAN, NEW DELHI, DTAB has recommended replacing the words ‘Chemists and Druggists’ by ‘Pharmacy’ in Rule 65(15)(b) of the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945.

The draft notification is currently pending with the ministry of health and family welfare.

As per Rule 65(15)(b) of the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, the description “Chemists and Druggists” shall be displayed by those licensees who employ the
services of a Registered Pharmacist but who do not maintain a “Pharmacy” for compounding against prescriptions. Similarly in Rule 65(15)(c) of the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, the description “Pharmacy”, “Pharmacist”, “Dispensing Chemist” or “Pharmaceutical Chemist” shall be displayed by such licensees who employ the services of a Registered Pharmacist and maintain a “Pharmacy” for compounding against prescription.

However, in the current scenario, the compounding of medicines by registered pharmacists hardly exists due to the capable pharma industry in place in the
country. The term ‘Chemists and Druggists’ was coined in 1945 and is quite old and has lost relevance and also, at present, the word ‘drug’ is looked upon as more clandestine and as an addiction for chemicals, hence not suit to refer a professional pharmacist.

It was requested to amend the Rule 65(15)(b) and Rule 65(15)(c), so that medical shops may be called “Pharmacy” as this is in concurrence with the international practice of calling a medical shop selling medicines by this name and also provide an identity and sense of value to the practicing pharmacist at the outlets.

Download DTAB, CDSCO meeting minutes: click here

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