Medicosnext
In a bid to safeguard public health, the Department of Drug Administration has issued a stern directive to pharmacies, urging them to cease the sale of unregistered food supplements, nutraceuticals, and cosmetics containing pharmaceutical ingredients. The move comes amid concerns that such unapproved products may pose more risks than benefits to consumers, as they lack regulatory oversight and may harbor undisclosed pharmaceutical substances. The national drug regulator has expressed alarm over the proliferation of unregistered dietary supplements, nutraceuticals, and beauty products in the Nepali market containing pharmaceutical ingredients in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquids, being sold across wholesale and retail pharmacies. Despite warnings from authorities, the sale of these products persists, prompting the department to issue a stark warning of confiscation and legal action against non-compliant traders.
Officials have highlighted the unethical practices of some doctors and dispensaries, who allegedly exploit vulnerable patients by prescribing unnecessary vitamin supplements and nutraceuticals for monetary gains. Patients, often unaware of their rights or the necessity of these supplements, are coerced into purchasing costly products, contributing to a culture of overprescription and excessive medication use. Amid growing concerns, calls for the establishment of a dedicated regulatory body, such as the proposed Food and Drug Administration, have intensified. Such an entity would not only oversee the quality of healthcare equipment but also monitor the quality and safety of nutraceutical products and cosmetics. Public health experts advocate for the urgent implementation of robust regulatory measures to ensure consumer safety and prevent the proliferation of substandard products in the market. As Nepal grapples with the lack of oversight in the healthcare and cosmetic sectors, concerted efforts are needed to establish stringent regulatory frameworks that prioritize consumer well-being. By cracking down on unregistered supplements and cosmetics, authorities aim to restore public trust and confidence in the safety and efficacy of healthcare products available in the market.
