In response to numerous complaints regarding chemists compelling customers to purchase complete strips of tablets or capsules, the government is actively seeking a solution to safeguard consumer interests. Consultations are underway with the pharmaceutical industry to address this issue. The practice of enforced buying of entire medicine strips not only results in medical waste but also places an unnecessary financial burden on customers. The Department of Consumer Affairs has initiated the first round of discussions, involving senior representatives from the pharmaceutical and medical devices industry. The meeting also included the participation of high-ranking officials from the Drug Controller General of India.
The Department of Consumer Affairs has received numerous complaints from consumers regarding chemists insisting on selling complete strips of ten tablets or capsules, thereby denying them the option to purchase smaller quantities. This becomes problematic when prescriptions are only for a day or two, forcing consumers to buy the entire strip unnecessarily. In other cases, consumers may prefer to buy medicines in smaller quantities due to financial constraints.
According to some chemists, they have no issues with cutting the strip and selling the required quantity of fast-moving medicines to customers. However, for slow-moving medicines or drugs, they insist on selling the entire strip because distributors or pharmaceutical companies refuse to accept unsold medicines if the strips are cut.
The discussions and consultations aim to find a balanced solution that protects consumer interests while addressing the concerns of both the pharmaceutical industry and chemists.