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Hyderabad: Ban on drug may up risk of deaths at childbirth

The government has, however, assured them that there will be constant supply.

Hyderabad: Gynecologists have warned the government that any impediment in easy availability of the Oxytocin drug will only increase the risk of loss of women during childbirth. The ban on sale of oxytocin from retail chemists is due to come into effect from September 1.

Oxytocin is widely used during childbirth when there is heavy blood loss caused by haemorrhage. With only one private sector unit in Karnataka producing this drug and the medicine not being readily available with chemists, doctors across the state have expressed concern.

A senior gynecologist on condition of anonymity explained, “Only one company producing the drug and supplying it to the whole country poses a major challenge. If local chemists are not going to stock it procurement for small hospitals will be difficult and an increased cost.”

The government has, however, assured them that there will be constant supply. Doctors are worried since they have to bear the brunt of irate relatives and also explain the reasons for any untoward situation to the local authorities.

The Federation of Obstetrics and Gynecological Societies of India along with other industry stakeholders have asked the government to allow for sale of the drug in chemist stores so that it can be easily available.

The Drugs Technical Advisory Board has been informed of the situation and a recommendation has been made to the union health ministry to make amendments as easy availability of this medicine is a necessity.

Oxytocin is in the list of essential medicines and must be easily available.

( Source : Deccan Chronicle. )
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