Medicines are arguably the most important invention in the history of humanity. They functioned as indispensable tools for the prevention, treatment, and cure of numerous health diseases. From minor headaches to diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure, medicines are an important contributor to the quality of life and an increase in lifespan. They are found in different forms, including tablets, capsules, syrups, injections, ointments, and drops. This makes it essential for patients and caregivers to be well-informed about the medicines they use.
However, we have witnessed people consume medicine without seeing a doctor and then experience complications. Ingesting these drugs without visiting a doctor can risk one’s life. Nevertheless, what if I told you that we can figure out which medicines are safe to take without a prescription and which aren’t, and it’s not rocket science to ask someone about them? How would you feel? Yes… It’s true. We can figure the answer out without the help of an expert. So, let’s find out how:
ADVERTISEMENT
What does the red line on the packages of medicines mean?
Apart from their medicinal benefits, medicines come with elaborate packaging information that includes numerous details, like instructions for consumers on safe use, accurate dosages, storage, and possible side effects. Likewise, you might have noticed a red stripe on the packages of many medicines. Yet, not many know that the line signifies something very crucial about the drug, pills, and capsules. Therefore, learning its significance is important.
ADVERTISEMENT
To address this issue, the Union Government initiated a Red Line awareness campaign in 2023 to combat the growing menace of antimicrobial resistance, which is a result of excessive antibiotic use.
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) has appealed to citizens not to use medicines that bear a red vertical line, including antibiotics, without a prescription from a doctor.
According to them, customers can only receive certain medications from pharmacists if a valid prescription is provided. The Union Health Ministry posted on X:
Advertisment
You can prevent antibiotic resistance! A RED LINE on the strip of medicines implies that the medicine should not be consumed without a doctor’s prescription. #SwasthaBharat #AntibioticResistance
You can prevent antibiotic resistance!
A RED LINE on the strip of medicines implies that the medicine should not be consumed without a doctor’s prescription.#SwasthaBharat #AntibioticResistance pic.twitter.com/zo7SooaiN9
— Ministry of Health (@MoHFW_INDIA) March 10, 2024
ADVERTISEMENT
ICMR also published protocols for antimicrobial use for certain medical conditions
As part of the program, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has also published treatment protocols for antimicrobial use in prevalent syndromes, viral bronchitis, and low-grade fever. These guidelines have been designed to promote the rational use of antibiotics and check misuse responsible for drug resistance.
Antibiotics are scheduled under Schedule H and H1 of the Drugs Rules, 1945. These medicines are available only on the prescription of a registered medical practitioner and bear specific caution labels. Supply of drugs under Schedule H1 is entered in a special register maintained for three years, which is kept open for inspection.
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has also scheduled 24 high-end antimicrobials under Schedule H1 via official notifications.
ADVERTISEMENT
This awareness campaign is one among a series of measures taken by India in its larger effort to ensure safe use of medicines and protect public health from the growing menace of resistance to antibiotics.
What do you think about this? Do share your thoughts with us in the comment section of this article.
ADVERTISEMENT
