Bhubaneswar, Oct. 7 -- In a major move to regulate the sale of medicines, the state government has instructed all pharmacies not to sell scheduled drugs without a doctor's prescription. The order covers antibiotics and cough syrups, which will no longer be available over the counter. Many chemists across Bhubaneswar have already displayed notices informing customers of this new rule.

The decision follows growing concern after reports from Madhya Pradesh, where several children reportedly died due to cough syrup consumption. In response, several state governments have restricted the use of cough syrups for children under two years of age. The Union health Ministry has also issued advisories to all states, asking them to strictly monitor t...