Cough syrups containing a mixture of antitussives, antihistamines, decongestants and expectorants may appear logical — one drug to dry secretions, another to suppress cough, a third to open nasal passages. But the underlying flaw is that these ingredients often work in opposing ways or have overlapping side effects
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As long as protecting the reputation and interests of the Indian pharmaceutical industry is the top priority, it is unlikely that there will be any meaningful reforms to prevent future tragedies caused by DEG. The bid to cover up, distract and obfuscate, as seen in the last few days, serves as valuable pointers
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Most antihistamines are sold as generics and are inexpensive. On the other hand, irrational combinations with montelukast sell at two-four times the cost of an antihistamine alone. The drug combinations are nothing but a sinister way to profiteer from common conditions. The proof: sales of montelukast as a standalone drug dropped 14%, while sales of combinations increased by 25% in 2023-24, with close to 200 registered brands selling combinations
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India can continue to be the pharmacy of the global south only if the regulator begins to behave like a watchdog to ensure drug safety, and not as a facilitator for the pharma industry
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