The Union government has proposed stricter rules for advertising prescription medicines, seeking to extend existing restrictions to pharmacies, wholesalers and distributors. The move aims to curb unauthorised promotion and reduce the risks associated with inappropriate self-medication.
The draft amendment to the Drugs Rules, 1945, would require prior approval from the Central government before advertisements for medicines listed under Schedule H, Schedule H1 and Schedule X can be published by licensed drug sellers and distributors.
These categories include prescription medicines that require appropriate medical supervision. Under the existing framework, pharmaceutical manufacturers face restrictions on advertising such drugs without prior government sanction. The proposed amendment seeks to address a regulatory gap by explicitly covering businesses involved in their sale and distribution.
The proposal follows recommendations made during the 93rd meeting of the Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB) on February 16, 2026. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has invited objections and suggestions from stakeholders and members of the public before finalising the amendment.
The issue has drawn particular attention amid concerns about the unauthorised promotion and sale of GLP-1 medicines used for weight management and certain medical conditions. Earlier, the government had intensified regulatory surveillance of their supply chain and warned against surrogate advertisements and indirect promotion that could mislead consumers.
GLP-1 medicines should be used under appropriate medical supervision, as misuse can pose health risks. Tighter advertising controls are intended to discourage misleading promotion and reinforce responsible medicine use.
The amendment remains a proposal, not a final rule. Its implementation will depend on the government’s consideration of public feedback and the final notification.

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