Stricter Ban on Prescription Drug Ads: The central government has come up with a major proposal to tighten restrictions on prescription drug ads. The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has issued a draft notification to amend the Drugs Rules, 1945. Under this proposed amendment, restrictions on advertisements of serious and controlled drugs contained in Schedules H, H1 and X are not limited to pharmaceutical companies, but are now planned to be extended to retailers, wholesalers and distributors.

Proposed amendment to rule 65 of the Drugs Rules, 1945

The Ministry of Health has notified this draft amendment vide Gazette Notification GSR 861(E) dated September 28, 2026. The proposal prepared after deliberations with the Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB) recommends addition of sub-rule (22) to rule 65 of the Drugs Rules, 1945. As soon as this provision comes into force, all dealers licensed to sell, stock, display or distribute drugs will be completely banned from advertising without prior approval of the Central Government.

On which drugs will these strict rules apply?

These proposed provisions will cover drugs listed in Schedules H, H1 and X. This list includes high-dose antibiotics, drugs with psychotropic effects, and other prescription drugs that can only be prescribed on the written advice of a qualified physician. The main objective of the government is to prevent unauthorized marketing in the market and to reduce the health risks posed by self-medication without proper medical supervision.

The decision was taken in the 93rd meeting of DTAB

Prior to this interim decision, the 93rd meeting of the Drugs Technical Advisory Board held on February 16, 2026 had an extensive discussion on the subject. It was noted in the meeting that the existing rules cover only the manufacturing companies, but the licensees involved in sales and distribution take advantage of it and advertise. To overcome this gap and loophole, it was recommended to strengthen legal supervision over the entire supply chain.

Suggestions and objections invited from stakeholders within 30 days

The Ministry of Health has invited objections and suggestions on these draft regulations from the public and all pharma stakeholders. Any person or organization may submit their suggestions within a period of 30 days from the date of publication in the Gazette. The Central Government will implement these amendments as a final policy only after serious consideration of all the suggestions received.