Ayurvedic syrup falsely claiming to treat 'menstrual disorders' seized by DCA from Peddapalli store

Hyderabad: The Telangana Drugs Control Administration (DCA) recently conducted a raid in Peddapalli, seizing stocks of an Ayurvedic medicine, ‘Menset Forte Syrup,’ which was advertised to treat ‘disorders of menstrual flow’ on its labels.

The claim violates the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, 1954, which restricts certain medical advertising.

Label contradicts regulatory standards

During the November 7 raid, DCA officials found ‘Menset Forte Syrup’ stocks at a local medical store in Peddapalli.

The product is manufactured by Onus Zaneka in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, and marketed by Zaneka Pharmaceuticals, whose business model claims to treat ‘irregular menstruation, menopausal syndrome, and amenorrhea (menstrual disorders)’.

What types of advertising are banned under the Drugs and Magic Remedies Act?

The claims seen on the seized stocks fall under prohibited advertising categories as per the Drugs and Magic Remedies Act.

The act prohibits individuals from taking part in the advertisement of drugs claiming to treat certain ailments, including ‘menstrual disorders’. Violations can result in penalties, officials said.

Legal consequences of misleading advertisements

Under the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, 1954, promoting any drug for the treatment of prohibited diseases or disorders can result in imprisonment of up to six months, a fine, or both.

The raid was conducted by drugs inspector P Shravan Kumar from Peddapalli and T Chandana from Mancherial. Stocks of the syrup were seized, and further investigation will determine additional actions against those involved in its distribution and sale.

Inspector Chandana emphasised that misleading medical advertisements pose a risk to public health, especially when consumers are misled by unsupported claims about the effectiveness of certain medicines.

Public assistance and reporting information

The DCA urges the public to report any suspected illegal drug manufacturing activities or misleading advertisements related to medicines.

Complaints can be made via the Telangana Drugs Control Administration’s toll-free number 1800-599-6969, which is available from 10:30 am to 5 pm on all working days.

Public advisory

VB Kamalasan Reddy, IPS, commissioner of Drugs Control Administration, Telangana, stated, “Our priority is to ensure public safety and compliance with medical regulations. Misleading advertisements on drug efficacy, especially in sensitive areas like menstrual health, are unacceptable, and our department will take strict action against such violations.”

As the investigation continues, the DCA remains committed to enforcing the act to safeguard consumer rights and maintain strict regulatory standards across the pharmaceutical industry in Telangana.