Pune chemists demand action against doctors selling medicines

The Chemist Association of Pune District (CAPD) is raising alarm over private doctors allegedly selling medicines directly to patients. This practice is said to violate several regulations, including the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules of 1945. CAPD claims this goes against the Medical Council of India’s standards and the Pharmacy Act of 1948. In a letter sent to high-ranking officials in Maharashtra, including the Chief Minister, the association has called for immediate action. They are asking for inspections to catch doctors who are unlawfully stockpiling and selling drugs in large quantities. CAPD argues that these doctors are bypassing pharmacies, which hurts registered pharmacists financially. Additionally, medicines sold outside of pharmacies do not undergo proper checks, raising concerns about patient safety. The association also noted that selling medicine without proper billing can lead to a loss in government tax revenue. Dr. Sanjay Patil, from the Hospital Board of India in Pune, defended the practice, stating that doctors can legally dispense medicine in emergencies. However, he emphasized that they should not sell medications intended for other doctors' patients. The Joint Commissioner of the FDA in Pune was reached for comment but did not respond by the time this report was prepared.