Government lists paracetamol, anti-acne cream, laxatives over-the-counter; experts warn overdose can trigger severe allergies

The government plans to amend the law to allow over-the-counter (OTC) sales of 16 commonly used drugs, including paracetamol, according to a draft notice published in the Indian Gazette.
OTC sales mean that drugs can be purchased from retail markets (pharmacies) without a doctor’s prescription.In a country where many drugs, including antibiotics, are sold over-the-counter, it could be the first time the government has taken steps to solicit drugs that can be sold without a prescription.
Other medications that are expected to be sold without a prescription include certain decongestants, common laxatives, and topical pain relievers in the form of certain mouthwashes, anti-acne creams and creams.

Dr Suranjit Chatterjee, Senior Consultant in Internal Medicine at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital in New Delhi, said it was a huge step forward.”The phenomenon of OTC drugs has a long history, and many drugs are sold under it. As far as I know, a few drugs such as paracetamol, skin ointment, etc. should be OTC, because no one will rush to see a doctor because of a mild fever. This decision, The government has also recognised the urgency,” he said.
“The drugs listed have the fewest side effects, but we can’t deny the possibility. Overuse of them can trigger allergies and reactions,” he said.
Dr. Chatterjee also suggested that even if the listed drugs are safe, “people should prefer a doctor’s prescription to continue taking these drugs.”
The Federal Department of Health and Family Welfare also notified that these designated drugs may be sold through retail OTC without a prescription from a registered physician, provided that the maximum duration of treatment or use does not exceed five days and symptoms do not resolve and the patient consults a physician.
Another condition states that the package size of the drug must not exceed the recommended maximum dose for five days, and that each package is accompanied by a patient information leaflet.
In addition, the claimed indications should be the same for each drug that the licensing authority has already approved, which is also clarified in the draft.