Patiala Administration Imposes Ban on Sale of High-Dose Pregabalin to Curb Drug Misuse

Additional District Magistrate issues ban orders

Patiala: In a decisive move to address the growing misuse of certain pharmaceutical drugs in Patiala, the Additional Deputy Commissioner-cum-Additional District Magistrate, Kanchan,

has imposed a complete ban on the sale of Pregabalin capsules and tablets in formulations exceeding 75 mg across the district. This ban comes into immediate effect and will remain in place until November 2, 2024.

The decision follows numerous reports from social organizations, NGOs, and media outlets highlighting the widespread abuse of Pregabalin formulations above 75 mg, which are being openly sold and misused as habit-forming drugs.

A committee, led by the Civil Surgeon of Patiala, was formed to investigate the availability and impact of these high-dose Pregabalin formulations. The committee’s findings confirmed that these drugs are frequently misused and are seldom prescribed by medical professionals. The Civil Surgeon recommended a prohibition on the sale of Pregabalin 300 mg to protect public health and support the Government of Punjab’s zero-tolerance policy against drug abuse.

Following consultations with representatives of the Indian Medical Association and Chemists Associations in Patiala, who corroborated the widespread abuse of these drugs, the Additional District Magistrate concluded that a strict ban on Pregabalin formulations over 75 mg is necessary. Additionally, the sale of Pregabalin up to 75 mg will be closely regulated.
A complete ban on the stocking and sale of Pregabalin capsules/tablets exceeding 75 mg across all wholesalers, retailers, chemists, medical stores, and pharmacies, including those within hospitals in Patiala. Pregabalin up to 75 mg can only be sold upon presentation of an original prescription slip. Sellers must maintain detailed records of purchases and sales, and mark the prescription slip with the trade name, date of dispensing, and the number of tablets dispensed.Sellers must verify that the prescribed Pregabalin has not been previously dispensed and that the quantity dispensed does not exceed the prescribed amount.
To cater to patients who may require higher doses of Pregabalin, an exception to the ban has been made for the medical store operated by the District Red Cross Society at Rajindra Hospital, Patiala. The Secretary of the Red Cross will ensure strict compliance with the order and maintain comprehensive records of all Pregabalin transactions.

This order, passed in light of an emergent situation, is effective immediately and applies to all residents and medical practitioners in Patiala.