PM Modi promotes generic drugs over branded ones; govt to introduce codes for doctors

The government will soon come up with a mandatory code on marketing practices to be followed regarding medical drugs.

New Delhi, April 20: As Prime Minister Narendra Modi wants every Indian to have access to cheaper medical drugs, the government will soon come up with a mandatory code on marketing practices to ensure doctors and pharmacists prescribe generic drugs rather than more expensive branded ones.

According to Times of India, the code is aimed at making the drug supply chain involving pharmaceutical companies, distributors, retailers and doctors accountable. "Violation of the code will carry penalties that can range from a warning to cancellation of licence depending on the seriousness of the offence," added Times of India.

The proposed marketing code has been approved by the department of pharmaceuticals. Currently, the code is being vetted by the law ministry.

Speaking in Surat, Gujarat recently, the PM referred to the Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana, which aims to provide cheaper medical drugs to the people.

"In the coming days, the government will bring a legal framework under which doctors will have to prescribe generic medicines which are cheaper than equivalent branded drugs, to patients," Pm Modi said. "...If a doctor writes a prescription, he has to write in it that it will be enough for patients to buy a generic medicine, and he need not buy any other medicine," he added.

OneIndia News