India Pharma Outlook Team | Monday, 18 March 2024
The Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB) recently held a meeting in January. The discussion revolved around prohibiting veterinary use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) Nimesulide formulations for vulture conservation.
The DTAB, an expert body that advises the drug regulator on technical matters, observed that the Delhi High Court ordered the Central government to provide reasons why the drug has not been banned, raising concerns about the drug's safety.
As a result, the Board agreed to ban all formulations of Nimesulide for veterinary use. It recommended that the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) investigate the drug's effect on adult human beings.
The DTAB was also informed of the Bombay Natural History Society's concerns about the veterinary use of Nimesulide to treat cattle, which poses a significant threat to vulture populations in India.
Nimesulide is toxic to vultures, leading to mortality through visceral gout and renal failure, similar to Diclofenac, Aceclofenac, and Ketoprofen.
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare recently banned the manufacture, sale, and distribution of Ketoprofen and Aceclofenac and their formulations for animal use, following the DTAB's recommendation.
The Board also suggested the formation of a sub-committee to examine drugs that could affect animal health or the environment and submit a report for appropriate action.
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