Health Ministry proposes wider curbs on prescription-drug advertising

The Health Ministry has proposed extending prescription-medicine advertising restrictions to retailers, wholesalers and distributors.

Under draft changes to the Drugs Rules, 1945, advertising medicines in Schedules H, H1 and X would require prior central-government approval. The proposal extends restrictions currently applying to manufacturers to sales and distribution licensees.

The measure remains a draft, not an implemented final rule. Public objections and suggestions will be considered before a final decision.

Source report: DD India, 9 October 2026.

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