GENERIC DRUGS

Prelims level : Science & Technology Mains level : GS II – Services relating to Health
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Why in News:

  • A petition has been filed to ensure that doctors prescribe generic medicines.

Why generic drugs:

  • A generic drug is a pharmaceutical drug that is equivalent to a brand-name product in dosage, strength, route of administration, quality, performance, and intended use.
  • The Medical Council of India (MCI), in an amendment to the Code of Conduct for doctors, has recommended that every physician “should prescribe drugs with generic names legibly, and shall ensure that there is a rational prescription and use of drug.

Pradhan Mantri Bharatya Janaushadhi Pariyojana:

  • Pradhan Mantri Bharatya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) is a campaign launched by the Department of Pharmaceuticals, to provide quality medicines at affordable prices to the masses.
  • PMBJP stores have been set up to provide generic drugs, which are available at lesser prices but are equivalent in quality and efficacy as expensive branded drug.
  • The Government of India has championed setting up Jan Aushadhis, which are pharmacies selling only generic name medicines to the extent possible, giving preference to pharmaceutical public sector undertakings (PSUs) too.

Drugs and cosmetics act:

  • Drugs and cosmetics act 1940, regulates the import, manufacture and distribution of drugs in India.
  • The act is to ensure that the drugs and cosmetics sold in India are safe, effective, and confirm to prescribed quality standards.

Medical council of India:

  • Medical Council of India is a statutory body set up in 1934, under the Indian Medical Council Act, 1933.
  • It establishes uniform and high standards of medical education in India , protects and promotes the health and safety of the public by ensuring proper standards in the practice of medicine.
  • Recently, NITI Aayog has suggested the substitution of Medical Council of India (MCI) with the National Medical Commission (NMC).
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