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In a compelling appeal to regulatory authorities, a Health Activist Nadie Jauhri has urged regulatory probe into overcharging of MSD’s diabetic drug, supply chain inconsistencies and product labeling discrepancies.
His letter to the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which has been reviewed by Pharmabiz, reveals overcharging and misleading price information in the pharmaceutical supply chain. Maharashtra FDA Vigilance department, however, has replied back stating that the concerned distributors have the stickering and stamping licenses with them.
“MSD’s diabetic drug Janumet 500 mg/50 mg is manufactured at Recipharm Pharmaservices Pvt. Ltd, Bengaluru on loan license and is sold in different price tags or MRPs in Maharashtra bearing different product labels despite having the same manufacturing license (ML) numbers. This explicitly shows the nexus of drug dealers and distributors leading to supply chain inconsistencies and product labeling discrepancies thus evading the law of the land.”
Referring to his previous correspondence dated February 20, 2024, Jauhri has drawn attention to specific instances involving Janumet 500 mg/50 mg metformin and sitagliptin tablets BP.
In one of the instances, the 15 tablets Janumet strip shows the MRP of Rs. 690 along with a revised MRP of Rs. 750 and in another instance, the 15 tablets Janumet strip shows the MRP of Rs. 345 along with a revised MRP of Rs. 375 bearing same ML numbers and manufacturing and expiry dates distributed across Maharashtra.
In a detailed exposition, the letter outlines concern regarding inconsistencies in ML numbers and the alleged involvement of Carrying and Forwarding Agents (CFAs) in purportedly unfair trade practices.
Accompanying the letter are two color photocopies of Janumet tablets and a copy of a letter from Maharashtra FDA, Thane.
“The letter has exposed the alleged nexus of retailers and wholesalers in supporting illegal trade practices, emphasizing the adverse impact on patients and the wider public. There is an urgent need for swift action by regulatory authorities to safeguard public interest and uphold the integrity of the pharmaceutical supply chain. As the allegations of unfair trade practices continue to garner attention, all eyes are on regulatory authorities to initiate a comprehensive investigation into the matter. The outcome of this investigation will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for the pharmaceutical industry and consumer trust,” Jauhri said.
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