GOVT WARNS HEART DRUGS MAY TRIGGER PSORIASIS

Why in the News?

IPC alert: The Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) issued a warning on beta-blockers causing psoriasis and erectile dysfunction.
Drugs involved: Combinations of Propranolol, Metoprolol, Atenolol, Carvedilol are under scrutiny for adverse drug reactions (ADRs).
Widespread usage: Beta-blockers, valued over $11 billion, are extensively prescribed for heart conditions and migraines.

Serious ADRs: Beta-blockers linked to chronic skin conditions and reversible erectile dysfunction, affecting quality of life.
Surveillance urged: Doctors, patients, and consumers advised to monitor symptoms and report side effects immediately.
Regulatory guidance: IPC urges use of PvPI reporting forms to log any suspected ADRs with concerned medications.

Expert view: Doctors stress monitoring, dosage adjustments, and follow-ups to manage risks without compromising treatment.
Regulatory role: IPC supports the CDSCO in ensuring safe medication practices through ongoing ADR tracking.
Earlier warnings: This alert follows a series of safety communications on eight different drugs since March 2024.

PHARMACOVIGILANCE IN INDIA

● Definition: Pharmacovigilance is the science of detecting, assessing, and preventing adverse effects of drugs.

● PvPI role: The Pharmacovigilance Programme of India collects ADR data through NCC-PvPI under IPC.

● Global framework: Works in line with WHO guidelines for medication safety.

● CDSCO function: India’s national drug regulator, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation, uses this data for policy action.

● Patient role: Reporting side effects through official forms helps improve drug safety nationwide.