Hyderabad: DCA raids quack’s clinic in Bolaram, seizes 28 types of illegal drug stocks

Hyderabad: In a continued effort to curb illegal medical practices, the Drugs Control Administration (DCA) of Telangana raided an unlicensed clinic in Bolaram Village, Alwal Mandal, Medchal-Malkajgiri District. The raid, conducted on February 8, led to the seizure of medicines stocked without a valid drug license.

Clinic raided for stocking medicines without license

Acting on credible information, DCA officials raided the clinic of Bollepally Bharani Vamshi Goud, who was found practising without proper medical qualifications. The officials discovered 28 varieties of medicines, including antibiotics, steroids, analgesics and antiulcer drugs, stocked without authorisation. The estimated value of the seized medicines is Rs 30,000.

E Thirupathi, drugs inspector, Malkajgiri, and T Shivateja, drugs inspector, Kapra, conducted the raid under the supervision of G Sreenivas, assistant director, Quthbullapur.

Concerns over antibiotic and steroid misuse

Officials highlighted the risks of unregulated antibiotic sales. “Indiscriminate sale of antibiotics by unqualified persons may have disastrous consequences on public health, including the emergence of antimicrobial resistance,” a DCA official stated.

During the raid, antibiotics such as Amoxycillin, Cefixime, Ofloxacin and Azithromycin were found at the clinic. The presence of steroids like Dexamethasone raised further concerns.

“Misusing steroids can lead to immune system suppression, hormonal imbalances, muscle and bone weakness, cardiovascular problems and psychological effects,” the official added.

Legal consequences and further investigation

Samples of the seized medicines have been sent for analysis, and an investigation is underway. The DCA warned wholesalers and dealers against supplying medicines to unlicensed entities.

“Wholesalers and dealers must ensure that recipients hold a valid drug license before supplying medicines. Those violating the Drugs and Cosmetics Act face stringent action,” the statement stated.

Stocking and selling drugs without a license is punishable under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, with penalties including imprisonment for up to five years.

Public encouraged to report illegal activities

The DCA has urged the public to report any suspected illegal drug-related activities. Complaints can be registered through the Drugs Control Administration’s toll-free number 1800-599-6969, operational from 10:30 am to 5 pm on all working days.

VB Kamalasan Reddy, IPS, emphasised the importance of vigilance in preventing unauthorised drug sales. “Public cooperation is crucial in identifying and eliminating illegal drug practices to protect public health,” he stated.