The Ministry of Health is set to implement a policy that will deregulate the sale of common household liquid antiseptics, including products like Dettol and Savlon. This move aims to simplify the process and enhance accessibility for consumers while easing wholesale licensing requirements.

Key highlights

Regulatory shift

•  The new policy will make household antiseptics more accessible by removing the need for a wholesale license.

• The sale of these products will be easier in the market, benefiting consumers and producers alike.

Deregulation backed by DCC

•  The Drugs Consultative Committee (DCC) has supported the decision, which will allow daily-use antiseptics to be sold in regular stores.

• However, hospital-grade antiseptics will remain under stricter control.

Impact on the industry
The deregulation is expected to boost the distribution of antiseptic brands such as Godrej’s and Reckitt’s products, making them more widely available to consumers.Further recommendations
The Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB) will review the policy and provide recommendations to ensure that public health remains a top priority.This regulatory shift is expected to simplify access to hygiene products while ensuring that hospital-grade antiseptics are only sold through regulated channels, ultimately benefiting the public and the industry.