Telangana DCA takes action against spurious drugs with new QR code system
Hyderabad: Spurious drugs pose a significant threat to public health, as they are often designed to deceive consumers by mimicking genuine medicines. These counterfeit drugs, manufactured by anti-social elements, may contain no active ingredient, the wrong active ingredient, or an incorrect dose of the correct ingredient. Some spurious drugs have even been found to be toxic, containing harmful chemicals that can be fatal.
To address this issue, the Government of India has introduced an anti-counterfeiting measure that requires drug manufacturers to label their products with a QR Code or Bar Code. This measure aims to ensure the authenticity of medicines and safeguard public health. The amended provisions, which came into effect on 1st August 2023, mandate that manufacturers of 300 top-selling drug formulations, listed under Schedule H2, print a Bar Code or QR Code on their labels.
The QR Code must store data that can be scanned to verify the authenticity of the drug. The stored information must include:
- Unique Product Identification Code
- Generic and Brand Name of the Drug
- Manufacturer’s Name and Address
- Batch Number
- Date of Manufacturing
- Date of Expiry
- Manufacturing License Number
For example, scanning the QR Code on Thyronorm 25 mcg Tablets redirects to an authentication link confirming its authenticity.
Public Advisory on Spurious Drugs
The public, hospitals, pharmacies, and healthcare providers are urged to verify the QR Code or Bar Code on the labels of Schedule H2 formulation brands before purchasing or administering drugs. This initiative aims to combat the spread of counterfeit drugs and ensure the safety of consumers.
Consumers are encouraged to report suspicious or unverified drugs to the Drugs Control Administration (DCA) of Telangana. Those who encounter drugs without a QR Code or those displaying mismatched details should contact the DCA or report them through the DCA’s toll-free number at 1800 599 6969 from 10:30 AM - 5:00 PM on working days.
Raids and Seizures by DCA
The DCA has intensified its efforts to intercept the movement of spurious drugs in Telangana. Since December 2023, several operations have resulted in the seizure of counterfeit drugs worth Rs. 1.73 crores. Notable raids have uncovered spurious drugs in locations such as Machabollaram, Dilsukhnagar, and Moosapet, where counterfeit versions of medicines like Rosuvas 10, Telma H, Monocef-O 200, and Chymoral Forte were detected.
In addition, a spurious drug manufacturing unit was uncovered in Hyderabad, which was illicitly producing anti-ulcer medicines. Other recent raids, including those in December 2024 and early 2025, led to the seizure of counterfeit batches of antibiotics and other drugs.
In May 2025, DCA officers conducted a special drive inspecting 90 medical shops in the GHMC area. Although no spurious drugs were found, violations of the Drugs Rules, 1945, were discovered in 17 shops, leading to the issuance of Show Cause Notices.
Ongoing Efforts and Public Involvement
On May 12, 2025, the DCA conducted a special drive focusing on QR Code verification for 300 formulation brands. During this inspection, six suspected counterfeit batches were detected, and stocks were frozen for further investigation. The DCA highlighted that such surprise raids, including QR code verifications, would continue to strengthen surveillance and combat counterfeit drugs in the market.
The public is reminded to check the QR Code details on the labels of Schedule H2 drug formulations before purchasing them from pharmacies. These efforts aim to ensure that genuine, high-quality medicines are available to the public. This advisory has been issued by Shahnawaz Qasim, IPS, Director General of DCA.
