Mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and insomnia have been on the rise, and this has seen a sharp increase in the use of neuropsychiatric drugs. According to Pharmarack, sales of neuro-CNS drugs have risen by 56% over the last three years, which is a reflection of the increasing need for mental health drugs.

Key Takeaways:

1. Market Growth:

2. Sales of neuro-CNS drugs increased from Rs 456 crore in December 2021 to Rs 710 crore in December 2024, which is a growth of 56%.

3. The most widely sold drugs in 2024 were anti-epileptic drugs (30.7%), antidepressants (18%), neuropathic pain drugs (13.5%), and antipsychotic drugs (5.6%).

  2.  Increased Awareness and Misuse:

• The decreased stigma around mental health and post-Covid stress have led to increased consultations and prescriptions for these drugs.

• Misuse of drugs, including repeated online purchases with a single prescription and sales without prescriptions, has also been reported.

  3.  Trends in Drug Sales:

• Sales of sleeping pills increased by 23% year-on-year, which reached Rs 13 crore in 2023.

• Psychiatrists are witnessing more frequent symptoms of mental health, such as panic attacks, OCD, phobias, and anxiety attacks.

Statements from Leaders or Officials:

• Alpesh Patel, Chairperson, FGSCDA:

"The increase in stress, anxiety, and insomnia has driven up the intake of such medications. Misuse and abuse, including using more prescriptions from one prescription, also add to sales".

• Dr Punita Grover, Psychiatrist:

"There is an increase in both consultations and medication prescriptions post-Covid. Reduced stigma related to mental health issues has led more people to seek professional help".

• Dr Hansal Bhachech, Psychiatrist:

"We have seen an increase in cases of panic attacks, anxiety, phobias, and OCD, which is driving the demand for neuropsychiatric medications."The increased sales of neuro-CNS drugs reflect the pressing need for balanced mental health interventions. Although increased awareness and reduced stigma are positive developments, stricter regulations are necessary to prevent misuse of these medications. Enhanced awareness campaigns and monitoring systems can ensure responsible consumption of mental health drugs.