A new controversy has emerged in Kerala’s medicine trade sector, with the Kollam district committee of the All Kerala Chemists and Druggists Association (AKCDA) taking a stand against local discount pharmacies using social media platforms for advertising. The AKCDA has raised concerns over medical shops sending unsolicited WhatsApp messages offering significant discounts on medicines, bypassing the Maximum Retail Price (MRP). The association has filed a complaint with the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) and plans to protest against these practices.

Key highlights

Complaint and protests against unfair advertising

• AKCDA has submitted a formal complaint about the illegal use of social media by discount pharmacies.

• Discount pharmacies are allegedly offering significant MRP reductions via WhatsApp, misleading customers.

• The AKCDA is holding pharmacists responsible for these unethical practices and is demanding action from the State Pharmacy Council and the Drug Control Department.

Violations of laws and professional ethics

• The association highlights that such practices violate the Pharmacy Practice Regulations 2015 and provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act.

• Discount boards used by pharmacies are considered unhealthy competition and a violation of established regulations.

• AKCDA has lodged complaints with both the State Pharmacy Council (KSPC) and the Drug Control Department.

Discount advertising creates unfair market conditions

• The AKCDA claims that discount advertising misleads consumers about medicine quality and pricing.

• They believe such practices contribute to the proliferation of counterfeit and substandard drugs.

• The AKCDA’s protest seeks to maintain ethical standards in the pharmacy profession and protect consumers’ rights to quality medicines.

Growing issue of counterfeit and substandard drugs

• The AKCDA also raised concerns over the growing sale of counterfeit medicines in the state, which they allege are being marketed under the guise of discounts.

• Discount pharmacies are seen as a challenge to the regulated pharma trade and are suspected of being run by individuals with powerful connections.

The ongoing protest by the AKCDA reflects growing frustration over the illegal advertising practices of discount pharmacies in Kerala. With increasing concerns over counterfeit drugs, the association is calling for stricter enforcement of the laws governing drug pricing and advertising. The AKCDA aims to protect both the integrity of the pharmacy profession and the safety of consumers in the state.