Are your everyday medicines safe? Top Indian drugs flagged for failing quality test

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) flagged over 50 drug samples as "not of standard quality" in its August report. This regulatory alert focuses on medicines from companies like Alkem, Hindustan Antibiotics, and Scott-Edil Pharmacia. (Reuters photo)

Several well-known pharmaceutical companies, including Alkem Laboratories, Hetero Labs, and Karnataka Antibiotics, were flagged for distributing substandard drugs. Many prominent drugs featured on the list. (AI-generated image)

Paracetamol, a widely used over-the-counter pain reliever and fever reducer, was one of the drugs listed. Known globally by names like Tylenol and Panadol, its inclusion raised concerns about the safety of everyday medications. (AI-generated image)

Pan D, commonly used to treat conditions like bloating, heartburn, and indigestion, was flagged. The drug is known to have side effects, including diarrhea and headache, making the quality issue particularly concerning for its frequent users. (AI-generated image)

Shelcal-500, a tablet used to treat low calcium levels in the body, including conditions like osteoporosis and Vitamin D deficiency, was also marked as substandard. Shelcal users rely on it for bone health and calcium balance. (AI-generated image)

The CDSCO report also flagged anti-diabetes medications, which are crucial for managing blood sugar levels in diabetic patients. Substandard drugs in this category could pose significant health risks to patients relying on stable glucose control. (AI-generated image)

Metronidazole, a widely used antibiotic for treating various infections, including those of the reproductive and gastrointestinal systems, was flagged. Given its use in treating sexually transmitted diseases and other infections, its quality could have wide-ranging consequences. (AI-generated image)

Ciprofloxacin, an antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections such as respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, and typhoid fever, was listed. Its substandard quality could compromise treatment for severe and potentially life-threatening infections. (AI-generated image)

Telmisartan, commonly prescribed to manage high blood pressure and prevent cardiovascular events like heart attacks, was also flagged. Issues with this drug’s quality could endanger patients relying on it for critical heart health management. (AI-generated image)

Calcium tablets alongside other vitamin supplements like Vitamin B Complex with Vitamin C and Vitamin D3 tablets, were part of the flagged list. These deficiencies in nutritional supplements highlight potential risks for individuals managing their health through vitamin therapies. (AI-generated image)