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 The Drug Control Administration (DCA) in Telangana has intensified its efforts to combat the illicit sale of abortion kits (abortifacient drugs) across the state.
As part of a special enforcement drive conducted on July 16, the regulatory body carried out comprehensive inspections in medical shops, resulting in the issuance of show-cause notices to 149 establishments found in violation of drug regulations. This proactive measure underscores the administration's commitment to ensuring public safety and upholding pharmaceutical compliance, says a communique issued by the department.
The statewide inspections specifically targeted the unauthorized dispensing of abortion kits, which include potent drugs such as mifepristone tablets and misoprostol tablets. A particular emphasis was placed on scrutinizing the indiscriminate sale of these drugs, which are classified under Schedule H of the Drugs Rules, signifying their requirement for strict medical supervision and prescription-only sale.
During the extensive drive, DCA officers identified a range of serious discrepancies in the sale of these critical medications. Violations included the sale of abortion kits without a valid prescription from a registered medical practitioner, failure to issue proper bills, inadequate maintenance or complete absence of sales and purchase records, dispensing of drugs in the absence of a registered pharmacist, and irregularities in maintaining prescription drug registers, alongside other breaches of the Drugs Rules.
The department reiterated that abortion kits are strictly mandated for use only under the direct supervision of a registered medical practitioner (RMP) following a thorough clinical evaluation and ultrasound. Furthermore, in accordance with the provisions of the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act, 2002, and the MTP Rules, 2003, such kits must be administered exclusively by a qualified gynaecologist within a medical facility specifically approved under these regulations.
Following the raid, the public has been sternly cautioned regarding the severe health risks associated with the unsupervised use of drugs like mifepristone and misoprostol. Purchasing and consuming these medications over-the-counter (OTC) from medical shops without a doctor's prescription and supervision is strictly prohibited and carries significant dangers. Such practices can lead to life-threatening complications, including excessive uterine bleeding, necessitating urgent medical intervention.
A critical advisory was issued concerning ectopic pregnancies, where the fertilized egg implants outside the uterus. In such cases, these medications are entirely ineffective and their consumption without diagnosis can result in catastrophic outcomes, including tubal rupture, severe internal bleeding, hypovolemic shock, and even death. Similarly, unsupervised use of misoprostol alone can cause dangerous uterine bleeding that, if not promptly managed, can also be fatal.
In the light of these grave concerns, the DCA strongly advises that abortion kits be used solely under proper medical guidance, strictly adhering to established legal and clinical protocols. The illegal sale of these kits constitutes a serious offense, punishable under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, and its associated rules. The administration has affirmed its resolve to initiate stringent legal action against any pharmacies found to be in violation of these regulatory provisions.
The department has also urged the public to actively participate in curbing illegal drug activities. Suspected manufacturing of drugs, including narcotic and psychotropic substances, in residential, commercial, or industrial areas, along with any other complaints regarding illegal medicine-related activities, can be reported to the drug control department.
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