The Centre has suggested amendments to the Drug Rules 1945. According to the amendments, 16 drugs under Schedule K have been exempted from the requirement of a doctor’s prescription for over-the-counter sale by retail sellers under a valid license. These 16 medicines include Povidone Iodine, anti-septic and disinfectant agents, Chlorohexidine mouth wash, Clotrimazole an anti-fungal cream, analgesic ointment diclofenac, paracetamol, some nasal decongestant, laxatives, etc. 

The gazette notification has been issued by the ministry seeking suggestions from the stakeholder within a month. However, a proposal also includes a clause stating that the treatment with these retail OTC should have a maximum duration of treatment of 5 days. If the symptoms are not resolved within these 5 days, the patient should consult a doctor.