The lack of regulatory clarity is imperiling India’s online pharmacy sector. While the digital business has grown rapidly in the past few years, online pharmacies have been accused of irrational use of prescription drugs, unlicensed selling of drugs, and endangering patients’ area-wise data. They are also reportedly selling drugs without licences, which neither the existing drug laws nor the draft amendment rules are governing. As a chemists’ organisation recently demanded a ban on online pharmacies, the government is preparing to replace existing drug regulations with the New Drugs, Medical Devices and Cosmetics Bill, 2023, which is expected to bring in more stringent norms for the sector.
