Surge of Fake and Substandard Drugs Threatens Odisha Healthcare

The Odisha healthcare system is grappling with a growing crisis as fake and substandard medicines flood state markets, posing severe risks to public health. A recent report by the State Drug Control Department revealed alarming gaps in regulatory oversight.

Alarming Statistics from State Drug Control Report

The report, tabled in the Odisha Assembly, highlighted that authorities identified 168 counterfeit drugs and 388 substandard drugs over the past four years. These figures underline serious vulnerabilities in the state’s drug monitoring system.

Experts warn that the rising prevalence of counterfeit drugs—often indistinguishable from genuine medicines—is creating widespread panic among consumers.

Fake Drugs Permeate Urban and Rural Markets

Painkillers, life-saving antibiotics, and other essential medicines are increasingly being sold by untrustworthy pharmacies and online drug stores. Dr. Sanjay Mohanty, a pharmacologist in Bhubaneswar, described the situation as a “silent epidemic,” stating, “Human beings are consuming poison, believing it is medicine.”

Illicit Manufacturing Across Borders

The report pointed out that 70% of counterfeit drugs originate from illicit manufacturing units in neighbouring states, entering Odisha through porous borders. Despite intensified raids, only 42 cases have been registered, with just 15 convictions, raising questions about enforcement efficiency.

Government Promises Stricter Measures

Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling assured that the government is taking stronger action, including the creation of a special task force and the computerised tracking of drugs to curb the menace.

Citizens Exercise Caution

Consumers are feeling increasingly vulnerable. Anita Das, a resident of Cuttack, said, “I check each medicine strip twice; however, how do we trust the system?” Experts recommend purchasing medicines only from licensed pharmacies and verifying batch numbers on government portals.

Urgent Need for Public Safety Measures

With the lives of 4.5 crore citizens at stake, the Odisha government faces mounting pressure to protect its population from the deadly threat of counterfeit medicines and restore confidence in the healthcare system.