Union Pharma Secretary Dr P D Vaghela has asked State Drug Controllers, SDCs  to help Pharmaceutical firms in augmenting production of medicines in the country. Dr Vaghela held a video conferencing meeting  with SDCs of 20 States along with Chairperson of National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority to review issues of production and distribution of medicines.

During the meeting, Drug Controllers were asked to ensure the availability of essential medicines and medical devices required in the management of COVID-19 treatment. They were also requested to ensure the utilization of manufacturing capacity to full extent so that sufficient stocks without any hindrance can be made available at all levels. They assured Dr Vaghela  that they are working hard to increase the production level.

He also instructed the Drug Controllers to monitor hoarding and price escalation of drugs and medical devices and initiate action in such case.He also asked to ensure availability of the Hydroxychloroquine, Azythromycin and Paracetamol  formulation to monitored by all the State Drugs Controllers.