Schedule H
Schedule H is a class of prescription drugs in India falling under the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945. These drugs cannot be purchased over the counter without the prescription of a qualified doctor. The label of Schedule H drugs carries a symbol 'Rx' which needs to be prominently displayed on the label.
Overview[edit]
The Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, and the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945, have clear guidelines on the sale of Schedule H and Schedule H1 drugs. These can only be sold by a registered pharmacist in a licensed pharmacy on a doctor's prescription. The pharmacist is required to maintain a separate register for the sale of these drugs and the register is to be retained for two years.
Schedule H1[edit]
In 2013, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare introduced a new category, Schedule H1, to prevent the misuse of certain drugs. This category includes antibiotics, anti-TB drugs, and certain habit-forming drugs. The packaging of these drugs is marked with a symbol 'Rx' in red, along with a box with red border.
Regulations[edit]
The sale of Schedule H drugs is regulated under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. The Act prohibits the sale of these drugs without a valid prescription and mandates the maintenance of a sales record for these drugs. Violation of these regulations can result in imprisonment and a fine.
List of Schedule H Drugs[edit]
The list of Schedule H drugs is extensive and includes a wide range of drugs from different therapeutic categories. Some of these include antibiotics, antidiabetics, antihypertensives, and drugs used for the treatment of psychiatric disorders.
See Also[edit]
References[edit]
