Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Chemists & Druggists Association of Goa (CDAG) has welcomed the amendment notified by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, to Schedule K of the Drugs Rules, 1945.
The notification issued through G.S.R. 477(E) dated June 9, 2026, removes the word “Syrups” for cough from Item (7) under Serial No. 13 of Schedule K.
CDAG said the decision is a positive step towards ensuring responsible distribution of medicines and preventing misuse of regulatory provisions.
The association stated that Schedule K exemptions have, in recent years, been misused by certain entities, including online pharmacies, for the sale and supply of medicines without adhering to required safeguards.
CDAG President Amit Kamat and General Secretary Prasad Tamba said the amendment will help strengthen compliance but stressed the need for a complete review of Schedule K.
They urged the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to undertake a detailed consultation with regulators, healthcare professionals, pharmacists, chemists, patient groups and industry representatives.
CDAG said any exemption under the Drugs Rules must prioritise patient safety and public health while ensuring medicines are supplied only through proper and authorised channels.
Following the amendment, CDAG has issued an advisory to member associations across the country to maintain strict compliance with statutory provisions and exercise caution while dispensing cough syrups and other prescription medicines.
