The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has issued an advisory cautioning against the unnecessary and prolonged use of painkillers, particularly non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), as well as antibiotics. The regulator has highlighted the potential risks associated with improper use, including kidney-related complications and antimicrobial resistance.
The circular was issued by the CDSCO under the Directorate General of Health Services, New Delhi, on September 21, 2026. It is addressed to healthcare professionals, pharmacists, retailers, distributors, hospitals, healthcare institutions and the general public.
The advisory points out that medicines, including NSAIDs, are regulated under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 and the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945.
CDSCO Advises Against Unnecessary Painkiller and Antibiotic Use
According to the advisory, NSAIDs and antibiotics should not be taken repeatedly or for extended periods without medical supervision. These medicines should be used only when clinically required, for the appropriate duration and under the guidance of a Registered Medical Practitioner.
People who already have kidney disease or other factors that could affect kidney function have been specifically advised to consult a healthcare professional before taking NSAIDs.
The regulator has also urged people not to repeatedly rely on painkillers or antibiotics when symptoms such as pain or fever continue or return. In such situations, medical advice should be sought instead of continuing self-treatment.
Antibiotics Should Not Be Taken Without Medical Advice
CDSCO has also stressed that antibiotics should not be used for self-medication or when there is no clinical need for antibiotic treatment. This includes most uncomplicated viral infections, where antibiotics are generally not indicated.
When antibiotics are prescribed by a healthcare professional, patients should follow the prescribed instructions and should not share their medicines with others.
For doctors and other healthcare professionals, the advisory recommends responsible antibiotic prescribing in line with antimicrobial stewardship principles. This includes considering the suspected causative organism, the location and severity of the infection and, where appropriate, microbiological tests and local antibiotic susceptibility patterns.
The circular also warns against unnecessary combination treatments, unsuitable antibiotic choices, incorrect doses and treatment durations that are longer than necessary.
Instructions for Pharmacists, Retailers and Hospitals
Pharmacists, retailers and distributors have been asked to follow the legal requirements governing the sale and distribution of Schedule H, H1 and other prescription medicines. Schedule H and H1 drugs should only be sold at retail in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Drugs Rules, 1945.
The advisory also asks pharmacists and retailers not to promote or facilitate self-medication involving antibiotics or prescription-only NSAIDs. They have been directed to follow the warnings and conditions of sale mentioned on medicine labels.
Hospitals and healthcare institutions have been advised to strengthen systems for rational prescribing and monitoring of NSAIDs and antibiotics. This includes proper patient counselling, prescription reviews and antimicrobial stewardship measures.
State and Union Territory Drugs Control Authorities have also been asked to increase awareness among healthcare professionals, pharmacists, retailers and the public about the risks linked to inappropriate use of these medicines. They have also been directed to ensure compliance with the relevant provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act and Rules.
The advisory ultimately calls for the safe, rational and responsible use of NSAIDs and antibiotics to help reduce avoidable adverse drug reactions, kidney-related complications and the growing risk of antimicrobial resistance.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only. It should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Do not start, stop or change any medicine without appropriate medical guidance.