Union Health Ministry Proposes Tighter Curbs on Advertising of Prescription Drugs by Retailers and Wholesalers

The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has proposed an amendment to the Drugs Rules, 1945, through Gazette Notification G.S.R. 861(E) dated 28 September 2026, to tighten curbs on the advertising of prescription drugs. The draft amendment seeks to extend existing restrictions—which require prior Central Government sanction for advertising medicines specified under Schedule H, Schedule H1, and Schedule X—to retailers, wholesalers, and distributors. Following recommendations by the Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB), this measure aims to address regulatory gaps across the pharmaceutical supply chain, curb unauthorized promotion, and reduce risks related to inappropriate self-medication under medical supervision.