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The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) has issued an advisory to manufacturers, importers and marketing authorization holders to ensure strict compliance with the provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 and the Rules, 1945 in the promotion and marketing of prescription drugs, particularly GLP-1 receptor agonists and similar drugs indicated for obesity and metabolic disorders.
The advisory highlights concerns about certain promotional activities, including disease awareness campaigns and digital outreach, that may indirectly promote prescription drugs to the public. CDSCO clarified that these drugs must be prescribed only by registered doctors in accordance with the approved indications and conditions of registration.
The regulator reiterated that any direct or indirect advertising of prescription drugs to the public is strictly prohibited, including promotional activities on print, electronic, digital or social media platforms.
Activities that exaggerate therapeutic claims, guarantee weight loss results, or undermine the importance of lifestyle modifications such as diet and physical activity will be considered false advertising.
CDSCO has advised all stakeholders to strictly adhere to regulatory and ethical marketing standards.
Companies were also ordered to ensure correct prescribing information, maintain consumer complaint mechanisms and submit comprehensive risk management plans to ensure ongoing safety monitoring.
The recommendation emphasizes that obesity is a chronic metabolic condition requiring comprehensive treatment, including lifestyle interventions, and pharmaceutical therapy should not be designed in a way that undermines broader public health initiatives.
Published – 12 March 2026 01:47 IST
