
Supreme Court Questions Continued Use of Covid-Era Drug Approvals
What Happened?
The Supreme Court has raised concerns over the ongoing sale of an antifungal drug approved during the COVID-19 pandemic, questioning the validity of expired emergency permissions. The case examines whether such approvals can support commercial sales post-emergency.
Key points
- The Supreme Court questioned the Centre and DCGI about expired emergency permissions for liposomal amphotericin B.
- The drug is used for serious infections, including mucormycosis, which surged during the second COVID-19 wave.
- A public interest litigation challenged the continued manufacture and sale of the drug under expired permissions.
- The Court noted delays in regulatory actions while the drug remained on the market.
- The DCGI is responsible for monitoring drug approvals and compliance with regulations.
Key insights
- The outcome may prompt a review of emergency drug approval processes in India.
- Regulatory bodies might face increased scrutiny regarding their oversight practices.
- This case could lead to stricter compliance requirements for drug manufacturers.
Why it matters
The case highlights the need for regulatory oversight after emergency drug approvals to ensure public safety.
Entities
Source
India Today


