Srinagar, June 20 -- New Delhi- The Centre has prohibited the manufacture, sale, distribution and supply of 16 fixed-dose combination (FDC) drugs across the country, citing a lack of therapeutic justification and concerns that the potential risks associated with their use outweigh any benefits.

The decision, announced by the Union Health Ministry through notifications issued under Section 26A of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, takes immediate effect and is aimed at safeguarding public health and promoting the rational use of medicines.

Fixed-dose combination drugs contain two or more active pharmaceutical ingredients in a fixed ratio. According to the ministry, the banned formulations were reviewed by an expert committee constituted ...