The operation follows Health Minister Veena George's directions to officials to take stringent action against those selling fake medicines.
Acting on her instructions, inspections led by the Drugs Controller uncovered counterfeit versions of several major branded drugs, prompting the state to widen its investigation to other states.
Legal action has been initiated against two pharmas in Thrissur and Thiruvananthapuram after they were found to have purchased and stocked fake medicines for sale, PTI reported.
Cases have been registered against both establishments, and stringent measures— including cancellation of their drug licences—would be taken against them, it added.
The Drugs Control Department stated that the probe into the counterfeit drug network will continue.
Traders who procure medicines from outside the state must maintain and produce all bills and records from the manufacturer to the retailer as part of the supply chain documentation, it directed.
The State Drugs Controller also warned that pharmacies found storing medicines without proper records or in violation of legal norms will face cancellation of their licences, the statement added.
Medical Dialogues reported earlier in November that over 400 kg of fake drugs seized and 14 arrests made across multiple districts in Kerala. The illicit consignment was reportedly being moved in refrigerated trucks and hidden among legitimate pharmaceutical supplies, raising urgent concerns about public health and regulatory oversight in the state.
In October, the Delhi Drugs Control Department also launched a citywide inspection drive to detect and eliminate fake or substandard medicines used for treating fever, cold, cough, and flu-like symptoms amid the seasonal surge in viral infections and respiratory illnesse.
Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.
NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.