Same Brand Name Used for Multiple Drugs: Govt Panel Calls for Stakeholder Consultation
Revised Schedule M
New Delhi: In a move aimed at addressing growing concerns over brand name extensions in the pharmaceutical sector, the Drugs Consultative Committee (DCC) has opined to carry out a stakeholder consultation to address the issues surrounding the use of the same brand name with extensions for multiple drug formulations.
In the 67th meeting held on November 17, the DCC was apprised about a representation received alleging that a pharmaceutical company is marketing multiple drug formulations under the same established brand name with different extensions.
Experts fear that such overlap in brand identity could lead to medication errors, particularly among patients who rely solely on brand familiarity rather than composition details.
In line with this, the committee noted,
"Concerns have been raised that the use of the same brand name for drugs with different active ingredients may mislead consumers and create confusion regarding their therapeutic use."
Taking cognizance of the matter, the DCC deliberated the issue in detail during its recent meeting.
After discussion, the Committee suggested that a comprehensive stakeholder consultation is necessary before arriving at a regulatory position. The consultation is expected to gather inputs from regulators, industry representatives, healthcare professionals, and patient groups to evaluate the risks, commercial practices, and potential need for clearer guidelines.
Finally, the DCC deliberated the matter in detail and opined to carry out a stakeholder consultation in the matter, considering various aspects.
