The government's price control measure for essential medicines has had an unexpected fallout — several of these drugs, including those for treatment of chronic ailments such as high uric acid levels, diabetes and acne, are either in short supply or have gone missing from chemist shops. Among the drugs facing shortage are Zyloric (prescribed for uric acid control), Ocid (acidity), CCM (calcium supplement) and Etroxin (a thyroid medicine) among others. Albumin, a lifesaving protein, has been in short supply for nearly four months now.
Druggists claim the pharmaceutical companies have reduced the production of these vital drugs because their profit margins have gone down — a charge denied by manufacturers. Kailash Gupta, head of a federation of chemists, said while controlling the price of essential medicines the government should also ensure their regular supply. Kailash Gupta, president…
