Kathmandu, October 15: The Department of Drug Administration (DDA) has made it clear that there is no ban on the sale, distribution or use of medicines that are already in the market.
The department released a press statement following confusion over its decision on the production and import of 47 medicine brands.
According to the DDA the new production and import of these medicines have been paused because the companies involved did not submit required risk assessment documents on time or meet the standards. Even though the relevant certificates may be canceled the medicines that are already imported or in stock can still be sold and used the statement said.
The department emphasized its commitment to avoiding shortages of these medicines. These medicines are essential for organ transplant patients and people with diseases who must take them regularly.
To keep supplies the DDA has renewed certificates for manufacturers and importers who provided acceptable risk assessment documents. They are allowed to continue production and imports for up to three months.
The DDA said these steps are meant to ensure medicine quality and safety. One key focus is reducing the risk of cross-contamination during production—when traces of one medicine might mix with another.
The statement said new arrangements are being made to produce these medicines in dedicated facilities. These facilities will follow World Health Organization standards. Be based on scientific risk assessments.
The DDA said it is working closely with the Association of Pharmaceutical Producers of Nepal the Nepal Pharmaceutical Importers Association and the Nepal Chemists and Druggists Association. The goal is to make sure that these essential medicines stay available, to patients.
